On her 92nd birthday, Subhash K Jha picks Asha Bhosle gems you must listen to.
Do Boodein Sawan Ki Haye from Phir Subah Hogi (1958)
A reminder of what Asha Bhosle was capable of even in those days. Khayyam composed the music.
Jaane Kya Haal Ho from Maa Ka Aanchal (1970)
This small-budget film, starring Anjana Mumtaz and Sanjeev Kumar, reportedly couldn't afford Lata Mangeshkar, so Asha Bhosle sang this ghazal for Composer Madan Mohan.
Naina Hai Pyaase Mere from Aavishkar (1973)
This Asha Bhosle song, composed by Kanu Roy, was originally designed for Geeta Dutt.
Main Ja Rahi Thi Lekin from Bidaai (1973)
In the film, Durga Khote's grandson arrives to give the lonely woman company in her last days.
Saathi Re Bhool Na Jaana from Kotwaal Saab (1977)
Asha Bhosle croons this jewel, composed by Ravindra Jain.
Yeh Saaye Hain from Sitara (1980)
This song about the illusion of showbiz is written by Gulzar.
Raat Jo Tunr Deep Bujhaye Mere The from Meraj-e-Ghazal (1983)
This non-film album, recorded in collaboration with Ghulam Ali, saw Asha Bhosle at her best.
Jeene De Yeh Duniya Chahe Maar Daley from Lava (1985)
Composed by R D Burman, Asha Bhosle sings this song with singer-cinematographer Manmohan Singh.
Umeed Hogi Koi from Dil Padosi Hai (1987)
Gulzar, R D Burman and Asha Bhosle collaborated on a non-film album, where this song stands out.
Bolo Kya Tum from Daayraa (1997)
In Amol Palekar's Daayraa, about a transvestite (played by the late Nirmal Pandey) and a sex worker (Sonali Kulkarni), Asha Bhosle sings Gulzar's lyrics for a tune composed by Anand-Milind.