'The world has lost a rare jewel': Runa Laila on Asha Bhosle’s demise

Bangladeshi playback singer and composer Runa Laila has said the world has lost a “rare jewel” following the death of legendary Indian singer Asha Bhosle.

In a Facebook post on Sunday afternoon, she wrote, “I am completely devastated. The world has lost a rare jewel, irreplaceable and unsurpassable."

Recalling her memories, she said, “As a child I would listen to Asha Didi’s songs and try to copy the superfine and finely honed intricacies in her unmatched voice. I learnt so much from her.”

She also shared her experience of working with Asha Bhosle on the reality show Sur Kshetra, saying they became very close during the programme.

“We laughed, joked, and gossiped so much that after a few episodes the producer placed us far apart so we couldn’t communicate easily. But Asha Didi insisted that I be seated in the chair next to her and of course you can’t say no to her,” she wrote.

Runa Laila added that Asha Bhosle often cooked biryani and prawns for her and brought them to the shoot.

“She would cook biryani and prawns for me and bring them to the shoot. We became good friends and loved and respected each other,” she wrote.

She also recalled their conversations and mutual respect, saying she always asked Asha Bhosle to address her by name instead of formal terms, but Asha Bhosle insisted on showing respect.

“I will miss our long conversations on the phone, endless gossip and hearing your voice again saying, ‘Runaji Aap kaisi hain ???’ May you rest in eternal peace,” she added.