When Lata Mangeshkar Helped the World Cup-Winning Team

Recently, the Indian cricket team won the 2025 Champions Trophy, once again capturing the hearts of the nation. But did you know that even Bollywood legends are passionate cricket fans? Yes, you heard it right. Today, we are sharing a story that showcases the legendary Lata Mangeshkar's love for cricket.

It all began in 1983, when the Indian cricket team returned after winning the World Cup by defeating the West Indies. The entire country was celebrating, but the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) was struggling financially. While today the BCCI has no shortage of funds, back then, they didn’t have enough money to reward the players for their remarkable victory.

In this situation, India’s Nightingale, Lata Mangeshkar, came to the rescue. At that time, the president of the BCCI was NKP Salve, who was eager to reward the World Cup-winning players but was unable to do so due to a lack of funds.

In response, Salve turned to Lata Mangeshkar for help. She immediately agreed to assist the team, but instead of directly giving them money, she came up with an ingenious solution that was truly commendable. Understanding that giving the players money herself might be disrespectful, she organized a concert at the Indira Gandhi Stadium in Delhi. Through this concert, she raised around ₹20 lakh, which was then distributed as a reward to each member of the Indian cricket team, with each player receiving ₹1 lakh.

What's truly remarkable is that Lata Mangeshkar didn’t take a single penny for herself from the concert. This gesture demonstrated her immense love and dedication towards cricket.

Her Special Bond with Sachin Tendulkar

Lata Mangeshkar’s love for cricket was no secret. She always took an interest in the Indian team’s matches and expressed her reactions after major victories. She shared a very special bond with the "God of Cricket," Sachin Tendulkar. Tendulkar considered her a motherly figure.

Lata Mangeshkar had repeatedly advocated for Sachin to be awarded the Bharat Ratna, and finally, in 2014, he was honored with the prestigious award. Sachin, in turn, has expressed his deep respect for Lataji on numerous occasions.
Her love for cricket and her special bond with cricket legends, especially Sachin, continue to inspire millions and showcase the depth of her passion for the sport.

Lata Mangeshkar's Iconic Songs

While Lata Mangeshkar has lent her divine voice to thousands of songs, here are some of her most iconic tracks:
Ae Mere Watan Ke Logon (Haqeeqat)  Lag Ja Gale" (Sadhana),  Jab Pyar Kiya To Darna Kya (Mughal-e-Azam) Aapki Nazron Ne Samjha  (Anpadh),  Yeh Zindagi Usi Ki Hai (Anarkali),  Tujhse Naraz Nahi Zindagi (MaSoom),  Aaj Phir Jeene Ki Tamanna Hai (Guide) Parbat Ke Peechhe  (Mahboobaa)  Haye Haye Yeh Majboori  (Roti, Kapda Aur Makan), Vande Mataram (Anand Math),  Chocolate Lime Juice (Hum Aapke Hain Kaun) Ajib Dastan Hai Yeh (Dil Apna Aur Preet Parai),  Ek Pyar Ka Nagma Hai (Shor), Jiya Jale (Dil Se), Tujhe Dekha Toh   (Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge) and Luka Chuppi (Rang De Basanti).

Awards and Recognition

Lata Mangeshkar, also known as the "Nightingale of India," has been conferred with numerous prestigious awards, including the Bharat Ratna, Padma Bhushan, Padma Vibhushan, Dadasaheb Phalke Award, Filmfare Lifetime Achievement Award, and several national and international honors.

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