Lata Mangeshkar has won millions of hearts with her melodious voice in the songs, Aayega Aanewala Aayega (Mahal, 1949), and Ye Zindegi Usiki Hai (Anarkali, 1953), among a plethora of others. The singer turns 90 today.

Born to Pandit Deenanath Mangeshkar in 1929, her first music lessons began with her father. She later continued her training with Ustad Amanat Ali Khan.

Music director Ghulam Haider gave Mangeshkar her first break with the film Majboor in 1948. Her journey continued with Naushad’s raaga based songs Le Ja Meri Duaye (Deedar, 1951) and Mujhe Bhool Gaye Saawaria (Baiju Bawra, 1952).

She went on to become the nightingale voice of the industry. SD Burman’s Jise Tu Qubool Kar Ley (Devdas, 1995) and Aaj Phir Jeene Ki Tamanna Hai (Guide, 1965) added new accomplishments to the singer’s musical career. Her later songs in RD Burman’s blockbuster hits, Jewel Thief and Amar Prem, are still cherished by many.

In her long career, she has worked with musical maestros Madan Mohan and Hemant Kumar, among others. Her songs, Pyaar Kiya Toh Darna Kya (Mughal-E-Azam, 1960) and Inhi Logone (Pakeezah, 1970) are popular even today.

The legendary artiste’s hit playback song, Tere Liye (Veer Zaara, 2004) was originally composed by Madan Mohan. It is a duet featuring her and Roop Kumar Rathod. The Daily Star wishes her a very happy birthday.