On World Music Day, music composer AR Rahman unveiled the teaser of a tribute song dedicated to the late legendary singer Asha Bhosle, calling her voice “one of the greatest gifts to Indian and global music.” The project, titled ‘Asha Forever’, features one of Asha Bhosle’s final recordings, making it a historic collaboration and an emotional moment for music lovers .
The song was recorded before Bhosle’s passing on April 12, 2026, at the age of 92. Rahman revealed that the project was conceived while Bhosle was still alive, with the intention of presenting it to her as a celebration of her legacy .
‘This tribute began as a dream’
Sharing the teaser on his social media handles, Rahman expressed his deep admiration for the veteran singer . “On this World Music Day, we celebrate a voice that has transcended generations, languages, and borders. This tribute began as a dream while Asha Bhosle ji was still with us. We had hoped she would witness the love and gratitude this project carries,” he wrote in a post that captured behind-the-scenes glimpses from the recording studio, including rare footage of Bhosle herself alongside Rahman and a group of international musicians .
He added, “Around the world, we celebrate musical legends. We are blessed to have one of our own, an artist whose voice became the soundtrack of countless lives. The most meaningful tribute felt like bringing together different musicians, traditions, and sounds to celebrate her extraordinary legacy. This is our humble offering to Asha ji. May her music continue to inspire hearts for generations to come” .
‘She wanted the song to be fun and energetic’
Reflecting on the collaboration, Rahman told Variety India that Bhosle was a major influence on his work. “Asha ji’s voice has been one of the greatest gifts to Indian and global music. She has been a major influence and guiding force to me, so when we were collaborating on the song, we wanted to make it about her remarkable legacy and a celebration of her voice,” he said .
“She was certain that the song had to be fun and energetic, and we would keep trying different things. I feel fortunate that we were able to create this together. Even when we were recording this, the energy and warmth she brought to it was amazing. That’s the spirit that makes her truly timeless,” Rahman added .
The final collaboration
Featuring vocals by both Rahman and Bhosle, alongside musicians from London’s Trinity Laban Music College, the song is positioned as an affirmation of Bhosle’s unparalleled contribution to Indian cinema and global music rather than a farewell . Rahman has served as Honorary President of Trinity Laban since 2024 .
The teaser showcases an ensemble of diverse artists coming together to pay homage to a voice that defined Indian cinema for nearly eight decades . Both Rahman and Bhosle had previously collaborated on iconic tracks including “Radha Kaise Na Jale” (Lagaan), “Kahin Aag Lage” (Taal), and “Rangeela Re” (Rangeela) .
The full version of ‘Asha Forever’ is expected to be released soon . As one fan put it online, the song is a “final salute to one of the greatest voices Indian music has ever known” .
