Legendary singer Lata Mangeshkar lent her iconic voice to countless actresses throughout her illustrious career, including Hema Malini, for whom she recorded several memorable tracks. However, there was a specific instance when the melody queen declined to sing for the acclaimed actress, despite Hema Malini’s earnest desire to have her as her cinematic voice.
During a past interview, Hema Malini reflected on her bond with Lata Mangeshkar and the trajectory of her career. The actress considered herself exceptionally fortunate that Lata Ji sang two songs for her debut film, Sapnon Ka Saudagar. The tracks were Shikha Nahin Sabak Tu Ne Pyar Ka and Nadaan Ki Dosti Ji Ki Jalan. Hema Malini noted that it was a significant milestone because Lata Mangeshkar was at the peak of her career at the time and readily agreed to sing for a newcomer in a Raj Kapoor production.
As years passed, the professional relationship between the two icons blossomed into a deep personal friendship. Hema Malini shared that Lata Ji shared a wonderful rapport with both her and Dharmendra. The singer frequently sent her precious gifts, including sarees of her choice. Hema Malini often expressed admiration for her immense talent and compassionate nature despite her towering stature in the industry.
The two luminaries also stayed connected as WhatsApp friends, regularly sharing songs and planning get-togethers. Hema Malini remained deeply grateful for the numerous chartbusters Lata Mangeshkar gifted her cinematic journey. She believed that while the singer performed for many heroines, the tracks she delivered for her, such as Duniya Ka Mela Mele Mein Ladki and Do Nainon Mein Aansu Bhare Hain, held a special place.
In the same conversation, Hema Malini recounted a poignant setback involving a project close to her heart. When filmmaker Gulzar began developing the movie Meera, casting Hema Malini in the lead role, the venture was immensely special to her. The producer was Prem Ji, who had previously backed several hits starring her and Dharmendra. Hema Malini had personally urged him to make a film on Meerabai, and he immediately agreed.
Hema Malini also suggested handing the directorial reins to Gulzar, setting the project into motion. However, her hopes were dashed when Lata Mangeshkar declined to record the devotional bhajans for the film. Hema Malini pointed out that while Lata Ji had been her signature voice throughout her career, she stepped back when the actress was portraying her dream role. Despite personal efforts to persuade her, the singer politely refused while explaining the exact reason behind her decision.
Lata Mangeshkar revealed that she had already recorded Meerabai bhajans for her brother Hridaynath Mangeshkar. At that time, she had taken a solemn vow never to voice those specific bhajans for anyone else ever again. This personal commitment prevented her from singing for the movie, leading Pandit Ravi Shankar to ultimately compose the music for the project.
