The voice that inspired millions

Every year on my birthday, she would send me a sari: Runa Laila

The voice that has inspired millions like me is now singing for the angels in heaven. Over the years, we built up a beautiful relationship of love and mutual respect. We exchanged messages on a daily basis and had long telephone conversations, talking about music in general.

Every year on my birthday, she would send me a sari. When we spoke last, she told me that I was her younger sister and she loves me very much and respects my talent. I am filled with a sense of desolation and emptiness that will remain with me forever, that I won't hear that lovely voice again, saying Runa ji Aap kaisi hain? (How are you dear Runa?)". I shall cherish your blessings and love till the end, Saraswati Maa. My Didi.

I could not sing in front of her: Sabina Yasmin

S D Burman had come to the Bangladesh Film Festival in India, and asked me to perform. When I saw Lata Mangeshkar in the hall, I immediately froze, as I could not believe that I was seeing her in person. I could not bring myself to sing in front of her.

Nonetheless, I performed, and she listened attentively. She smiled at me, and blessed me afterwards. I will never forget that day.

I will always regret for not being able to meet her in person: Ferdausi Rahman

I doubt we will have another great artiste like her in this continent ever again. She won the hearts of people of all ages. She had such a melodious voice. Although I have visited Mumbai numerous times, I never got to meet her. I will always regret not meeting her in person.

She was really lucky to receive love from millions of people during her lifetime.

My mother and I listened to her songs every afternoon:  Alif Alauddin

Celebrating 400 years of Kolkata, I went to the city with my parents, and Lata Mangeshkar also attended the occasion. Runa Laila and Bhupen Hazarika along with Abbu (Alauddin Ali), were invited among others at the Kolkata Stadium. 

My mother was very excited, as we were staying at the same hotel as Lata Mangeshkar. She called me close to her, and took a picture with me. I was amazed with the respect my parents paid to her. My mother and I listened to her songs every afternoon. Thank you, for all the memories.