Last month, India celebrated its 78th Independence Day. And we had the honour to interview the legend born way before India gained independence! The iconic singer, Asha Bhosle, sang songs about India’s independence after witnessing the country gain freedom from British rule. She discussed her memories of Independence Day, freedom fighters, and Mahatma Gandhi on this Sunday brunch episode with our editor-in-chief, Kamiya Jani.
Asha Bhosle’s Memory Of Mahatma Gandhi
Asha ji came into this world in 1933 which is nearly 13 years before India gained independence. The ‘Har Ghar Tiranga’ singer witnessed public meetings before India broke free from the shackles of the British. She also caught a glimpse of Mahatma Gandhi and other prominent freedom fighters. That day is etched in her memory and she fondly narrated it to us.
Asha ji recalled one of her first trips to Mumbai. She noticed a massive gathering at Shivaji Park and was curious. Without a second thought, teenage Asha Bhosle made her way to the public gathering. She saw Mahatma Gandhi, Jawaharlal Nehru, Sarojini Naidu, Maulana Azad, Prakash Narayan, and other freedom fighters address the crowd.
At that time, she knew Marathi and wasn’t well-versed in Hindi. However, she could sense that the leaders’ speeches were meaningful. She said, “I have seen Mahatma Gandhi, heard his influential speeches and (his) voice!” We were fascinated to learn that our guest had seen Gandhi in the flesh!
Also Read: Asha Bhosle Shares How People Compared Her & Lata Mangeshkar Back In The Day
This Is The Reason She Cried Right After
There is another reason why this incident is unforgettable for Asha Ji! She revealed that after the public gathering dispersed, she couldn’t recall her way back home as she was new in Mumbai. She sat on the ground and cried out loud as she felt helpless.
Also Read: Asha Bhosle Shares Memorable Moments Of Growing Up In Sangli, Kolhapur
After a while, she asked a man whether he knew the route to Ashirwad Apartments (her stay). Funnily, the man informed her that the apartment was right in front of her! She was relieved to find out that it indeed was in front of her. This hilarious incident left all of us in splits.
She further talked about the condition of India right after it became freedom, watch the entire video to learn more.
Cover Image Courtesy: Internal
For more such snackable content, interesting discoveries and the latest updates on food, travel and experiences in your city, download the Curly Tales App. Download HERE.