Asha Bhosle is currently admitted to the Breach Candy Hospital after suffering a cardiac arrest. Amid this, let's take a look back at her musical connection and love story with RD Burman.
Legendary Bollywood singer, Asha Bhosle seems to be going through one of the toughest phases of her life. Best known for her soulful voice and hit songs like Tumse Milke, Sapne Mein, Zara Sa Jhoom Lu Main, and more, it was recently reported that she has suffered a cardiac arrest and is currently hospitalised. As of April 2026, Asha Bhosle is 92 years old.
Many might already be aware that in her personal life, Asha Bhosle was married to the genius, Rahul Dev Burman. The duo not only had a professional partnership but also a relationship which was filled with beauty, creativity, and personal connection. So, as we wish Asha Bhosle a quick recovery, let's take a look back at her love story with RD Burman.
Rahul Dev Burman, affectionately known as Pancham Da, was one of the most revolutionary music composers. On the other hand, Asha Bhosle was a singer whose voice defined versatility in playback singing at the time. According to reports, the pair came together professionally back in the early 1960s. For the unversed, it was the song, Aaja Aaja Main Hoon Pyar Tera from the 1966 movie, Teesri Manzil, which marked Asha and RD Burman's first major hit after working together. And as we already know, this was just the start of a partnership which would create magic for several decades to come.
Die-hard fans of the pair might be aware that Asha and RD Burman shared a significant age gap, with RD Burman six years younger than Asha. Despite this, the duo quickly developed a strong bond owing to their shared passion for music. If reports are believed to be true, RD Burman admired the manner in which Asha could adapt her voice to any genre. When it came to what she liked about RD Burman, it is said that she appreciated his innovative approach to musical composition. Best known for his experimental style, RD Burman found in Asha an ideal muse who could switch from classical to cabaret to soulful ballads both swiftly and effortlessly.
To note, Asha and RD Burman's partnership grew more in the 1970s, both personally and professionally. Over the years, their collaboration has given us evergreen hits like Dum Maro Dum, Chura Liya Hai Tumne, and Piya Tu Ab To Aaja, among others. One of the reasons that their songs remain iconic to this day is that they often showcased a fusion of Western and Indian influences. This also helped set new benchmarks in Hindi film music.
Asha Bhosle and RD Burman's personal relationship took a turn after the latter's first marriage ended in separation. Asha's personal life was even more tumultuous, with her ex-husband being extremely abusive towards her and their children. When Asha and RD Burman came together, they found solace in each other's presence. Their shared love for music further deepened their connection. Back in 1980, Asha and RD Burman tied the knot in a low-key ceremony. Apparently, Asha was initially hesitant to get into a relationship, as it took a lot of convincing from RD Burman's end. She did eventually give in after realising how much he loved her.
It is worth noting that despite being in love with each other, their journey together wasn't one without challenges. After their marriage, during the ‘80s, RD Burman's career saw a surprising decline. To make matters worse, he even faced health issues due to smoking and drinking. Throughout his tough times, Asha continued to stand beside him, providing him with much-needed emotional support. This continued even after their separation, as they would often see each other regularly. Sadly, after 14 years of marriage, Pancham Da left her forever in January 1994 at the age of 54.
What are your thoughts on Asha Bhosle and RD Burman's love story? Let us know.
Also read: Meet Asha Bhosle's Daughter Varsha, Who Committed Suicide In 2012, Amid The Singer's Hospitalisation