As the nation commemorates the death anniversary of Lata Mangeshkar in 2024, poignant memories resurface, not just of her musical prowess but also her heartwarming contributions to Indian cricket. Renowned Bollywood actor Sharmila Tagore, wife of the late Indian cricket captain Mansoor Ali Khan Pataudi, shared a remarkable anecdote highlighting how the acclaimed singer donated her time and talent to financially support the 1983 World Cup-winning Indian cricket team.
In an interview, Tagore revealed an instance of generosity that connected the soulful voice of Mangeshkar with the triumphant heartbeats of Indian cricket. She recounted how in 1983, amidst the celebration of India’s unexpected World Cup triumph, there was a quiet concern about the financial position of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), which was far from affluent at that time. There were no substantial funds to reward the cricketers who had brought the nation immense glory.
Grasping the situation, Lata Mangeshkar and her brother, Hridaynath Mangeshkar, orchestrated a fundraising effort that culminated in a substantial donation—Rs. 20 lakh, a significant sum at a time when cricket was yet to become the lucrative sport it is today. Each member of the victorious squad received Rs. one lakh, a gesture of appreciation drawn from the depths of Mangeshkar’s affection for the game. The Nightingale of India, as she was popularly known, was an ardent cricket fan, and her action reflected not just fandom but a heartfelt connection with national pride.
BCCI’s financial constraints weren’t new territory for Mangeshkar’s philanthropy. Tagore noted that the singer had previously contributed to the liberation movement of Goa and had performed alongside Sudhir Phadke saab in a concert for the same cause. Lata Mangeshkar’s endeavors benefitted various societal and national facets, embodying a spirit of selfless contribution.
The singer’s demise on February 6, 2022, was met with nationwide mourning. Lata Mangeshkar had been admitted to the Breach Candy Hospital in Mumbai after testing positive for COVID-19 in January 2022 but could not recover. Her passing left a void in the arts and the hearts of those she touched with her generosity.
Kirti Azad, a member of the 1983 World Cup-winning team, took to social media to reminisce about Lata Mangeshkar’s incredible support. An evocative black-and-white image surfaced, featuring the cricket team with the singer poignantly posed behind the World Cup trophy, showcasing a united celebration of cricket and music. Azad expressed his lifelong gratitude and acknowledged how the singer’s contributions would be fondly remembered by the team.
Sourav Ganguly, the president of BCCI, also paid a heartfelt tribute to Lata Mangeshkar. He marveled at how Mangeshkar’s voice retained its youthfulness throughout her life, never showing signs of aging, and lamented the loss of such rare, pristine talent. Ganguly’s tweet illustrated a nation’s adoration for the iconic singer whose voice remains etched in the memories of millions.
The anniversary of Lata Mangeshkar’s death serves not only as a melancholic reminder of her absence but also as an opportunity to celebrate a life that went beyond music to touch myriad aspects of Indian culture, including the cherished realm of cricket. Her contribution to the victorious 1983 World Cup team stands as a testament to her enduring legacy—a legacy of bringing joy through her songs and supporting the nation through its highs and lows. Lata Mangeshkar—singer, benefactor, and a cherished icon—continues to be missed, her melodies and munificence echoing perpetually.
