April 14, 2026

Rahul Gandhi (File photo) NEW DELHI: Sharpening his anti-government tirade over the India-US trade deal, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Tuesday called Prime Minister Narendra Modi a “deshdrohi” (traitor), doubling down on his claim that “PM Modi sold off India”.Addressing a poll rally in Bengal, the Lok Sabha leader of opposition accused the Modi government of “handing over India’s energy security to the US by succumbing to Washington’s pressure”.”India’s agricultural sector will be devastated. Modi sold off India in the trade deal with the US. He is not ‘desh bhakt’ (patriot), he is ‘deshdrohi’ (traitor),” Gandhi alleged as per news agency PTI while addressing the rally in Malda, where the Congress traditionally has had a strong presence.Stating that data security is of paramount importance as a country’s strength is built on it, Gandhi accused the Modi government of giving up India’s data to the USA. “National security has been badly harmed by this,” he said.Alleging that the Modi government has given a commitment to the US that it would buy goods from it worth Rs 9.5 lakh crore, Gandhi said, “If American goods enter India like a tsunami, then our country’s small and medium scale factories will close down.””This will cause double loss for Bengal since Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has already closed down industries in the state,” he said. US trade deal will lead to closure of small, mid-size industries, cause job loss in India: Rahul Gandhi in Bengal. PM not ‘desh bhakt’ (patriot), he is ‘deshdrohi’ (traitor): Rahul Gandhi at poll rally in Bengal.In a two-pronged attack , Rahul Gandhi accused the BJP and the RSS of destroying the Constitution with their “hate-filled thinking”, while claiming the ruling TMC has failed in fulfilling its promise of providing jobs to the state’s youth.Addressing poll rallies in Raiganj and Malda, Gandhi claimed that 84 lakh youths in Bengal have applied for the unemployment allowance promised by the Mamata Banerjee government.”Chief minister Mamata Banerjee promised jobs to five lakh people. But 84 lakh youths have applied for unemployment allowance,” he said.Targeting the BJP and RSS, the leader of the opposition in the Lok Sabha accused the two outfits of destroying the Constitution by their “hate-filled thinking” and being “involved in vote theft”.Gandhi termed the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls “unconstitutional” and alleged that wherever the BJP and RSS get a chance, they make insinuations against the Constitution.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosIndia Engages Israel On Iran And Hormuz Crisis As Jaishankar Pushes Dialogue Amid Rising TensionsWhy Samrat Choudhary Emerges As Likely Bihar CM As BJP Gains Edge With Strong Majority In Assembly‘Gross Injustice If Delayed’: PM Modi Seeks Backing for Women’s Reservation BillHow Secret Police Operation Uncovered Abuse, Coercion, Religious Pressure; Firm Promises ActionAfter Violent Noida Unrest, Uttar Pradesh Govt Raises Wages In Urgent Bid To Restore Calm And TrustNoida Violence Under Scanner As Probe Explores Pakistan Link, 350 People Arrested In CrackdownED Arrests I-Pac Co-Founder Vinesh Chandel; Big Blow To TMC Ahead Of Bengal PollsIndia Receives Iranian Crude After 7 Years Amid Looming US Hormuz Blockade CrisisVikram Misri Holds Key Talks With French FM, Discusses West Asia Conflict, Bilateral TiesMEA Responds As 15 Indian Ships Remain Stranded Amid Trump’s Hormuz Blockade123Photostories10 mysteries hidden beneath the ocean floor that scientists still can’t explain8 Signs and Symptoms of Vitamin D DeficiencyMumbai’s first closed-door local arrives, big safety shift on tracksThis is India’s leading milk-producing state: FSSAI’s general standards for milk composition and quality factorsWhy are wildlife enthusiasts heading to Jim Corbett National Park in April?6 things to ask your partner during the dating phaseArtemis II mission: Nasa unveils stunning images of Earth and Moon captured during historic flyby — In picsFashion flashback: When Asha Bhosle absolutely owned Manish Malhotra’s fashion show at 79 and overshadowed Priyanka ChopraYou walk every day. You quit sugar. So why is your blood sugar still rising? Doctor explains what people do wrongTCS Nashik crisis: From POSH failure to conversion claims, the story keeps getting darker123Hot PicksIran warStock market holidayPurple cap winnerOrange cap winnerIPL Points TablePublic holidays April 2026Bank Holidays AprilTop TrendingDelhi-Dehradun ExpresswayStock market holidayBank holiday todayKaty PerryAnna Kepner murderDon TzuPraful HingeIPL Points TableKavya MaranNFL news roundup

Vamsikrishna03 mins mins
Rahul Gandhi (File photo) NEW DELHI: Sharpening his anti-government tirade over the India-US trade deal, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Tuesday called Prime Minister Narendra Modi a “deshdrohi” (traitor), doubling down on his claim that “PM Modi sold off India”.Addressing a poll rally in Bengal, the Lok Sabha leader of opposition accused the Modi government of “handing over India’s energy security to the US by succumbing to Washington’s pressure”.”India’s agricultural sector will be devastated. Modi sold off India in the trade deal with the US. He is not ‘desh bhakt’ (patriot), he is ‘deshdrohi’ (traitor),” Gandhi alleged as per news agency PTI while addressing the rally in Malda, where the Congress traditionally has had a strong presence.Stating that data security is of paramount importance as a country’s strength is built on it, Gandhi accused the Modi government of giving up India’s data to the USA. “National security has been badly harmed by this,” he said.Alleging that the Modi government has given a commitment to the US that it would buy goods from it worth Rs 9.5 lakh crore, Gandhi said, “If American goods enter India like a tsunami, then our country’s small and medium scale factories will close down.””This will cause double loss for Bengal since Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has already closed down industries in the state,” he said. US trade deal will lead to closure of small, mid-size industries, cause job loss in India: Rahul Gandhi in Bengal. PM not ‘desh bhakt’ (patriot), he is ‘deshdrohi’ (traitor): Rahul Gandhi at poll rally in Bengal.In a two-pronged attack , Rahul Gandhi accused the BJP and the RSS of destroying the Constitution with their “hate-filled thinking”, while claiming the ruling TMC has failed in fulfilling its promise of providing jobs to the state’s youth.Addressing poll rallies in Raiganj and Malda, Gandhi claimed that 84 lakh youths in Bengal have applied for the unemployment allowance promised by the Mamata Banerjee government.”Chief minister Mamata Banerjee promised jobs to five lakh people. But 84 lakh youths have applied for unemployment allowance,” he said.Targeting the BJP and RSS, the leader of the opposition in the Lok Sabha accused the two outfits of destroying the Constitution by their “hate-filled thinking” and being “involved in vote theft”.Gandhi termed the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls “unconstitutional” and alleged that wherever the BJP and RSS get a chance, they make insinuations against the Constitution.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosIndia Engages Israel On Iran And Hormuz Crisis As Jaishankar Pushes Dialogue Amid Rising TensionsWhy Samrat Choudhary Emerges As Likely Bihar CM As BJP Gains Edge With Strong Majority In Assembly‘Gross Injustice If Delayed’: PM Modi Seeks Backing for Women’s Reservation BillHow Secret Police Operation Uncovered Abuse, Coercion, Religious Pressure; Firm Promises ActionAfter Violent Noida Unrest, Uttar Pradesh Govt Raises Wages In Urgent Bid To Restore Calm And TrustNoida Violence Under Scanner As Probe Explores Pakistan Link, 350 People Arrested In CrackdownED Arrests I-Pac Co-Founder Vinesh Chandel; Big Blow To TMC Ahead Of Bengal PollsIndia Receives Iranian Crude After 7 Years Amid Looming US Hormuz Blockade CrisisVikram Misri Holds Key Talks With French FM, Discusses West Asia Conflict, Bilateral TiesMEA Responds As 15 Indian Ships Remain Stranded Amid Trump’s Hormuz Blockade123Photostories10 mysteries hidden beneath the ocean floor that scientists still can’t explain8 Signs and Symptoms of Vitamin D DeficiencyMumbai’s first closed-door local arrives, big safety shift on tracksThis is India’s leading milk-producing state: FSSAI’s general standards for milk composition and quality factorsWhy are wildlife enthusiasts heading to Jim Corbett National Park in April?6 things to ask your partner during the dating phaseArtemis II mission: Nasa unveils stunning images of Earth and Moon captured during historic flyby — In picsFashion flashback: When Asha Bhosle absolutely owned Manish Malhotra’s fashion show at 79 and overshadowed Priyanka ChopraYou walk every day. You quit sugar. So why is your blood sugar still rising? Doctor explains what people do wrongTCS Nashik crisis: From POSH failure to conversion claims, the story keeps getting darker123Hot PicksIran warStock market holidayPurple cap winnerOrange cap winnerIPL Points TablePublic holidays April 2026Bank Holidays AprilTop TrendingDelhi-Dehradun ExpresswayStock market holidayBank holiday todayKaty PerryAnna Kepner murderDon TzuPraful HingeIPL Points TableKavya MaranNFL news roundup


'PM Modi is a deshdrohi': Rahul Gandhi repeats his 'sold India in US trade deal' claim
Rahul Gandhi (File photo)

NEW DELHI: Sharpening his anti-government tirade over the India-US trade deal, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Tuesday called Prime Minister Narendra Modi a “deshdrohi” (traitor), doubling down on his claim that “PM Modi sold off India”.Addressing a poll rally in Bengal, the Lok Sabha leader of opposition accused the Modi government of “handing over India’s energy security to the US by succumbing to Washington’s pressure”.“India’s agricultural sector will be devastated. Modi sold off India in the trade deal with the US. He is not ‘desh bhakt’ (patriot), he is ‘deshdrohi’ (traitor),” Gandhi alleged as per news agency PTI while addressing the rally in Malda, where the Congress traditionally has had a strong presence.Stating that data security is of paramount importance as a country’s strength is built on it, Gandhi accused the Modi government of giving up India’s data to the USA. “National security has been badly harmed by this,” he said.Alleging that the Modi government has given a commitment to the US that it would buy goods from it worth Rs 9.5 lakh crore, Gandhi said, “If American goods enter India like a tsunami, then our country’s small and medium scale factories will close down.”“This will cause double loss for Bengal since Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has already closed down industries in the state,” he said. US trade deal will lead to closure of small, mid-size industries, cause job loss in India: Rahul Gandhi in Bengal. PM not ‘desh bhakt’ (patriot), he is ‘deshdrohi’ (traitor): Rahul Gandhi at poll rally in Bengal.In a two-pronged attack , Rahul Gandhi accused the BJP and the RSS of destroying the Constitution with their “hate-filled thinking”, while claiming the ruling TMC has failed in fulfilling its promise of providing jobs to the state’s youth.Addressing poll rallies in Raiganj and Malda, Gandhi claimed that 84 lakh youths in Bengal have applied for the unemployment allowance promised by the Mamata Banerjee government.“Chief minister Mamata Banerjee promised jobs to five lakh people. But 84 lakh youths have applied for unemployment allowance,” he said.Targeting the BJP and RSS, the leader of the opposition in the Lok Sabha accused the two outfits of destroying the Constitution by their “hate-filled thinking” and being “involved in vote theft”.Gandhi termed the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls “unconstitutional” and alleged that wherever the BJP and RSS get a chance, they make insinuations against the Constitution.



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PTI file photo Societies clinging to the past while dreaming of the future are often trapped between two mental states. India, just out of the clutches of colonialism, too experienced this duality in social order. In this general backdrop of ambiguity, the nation’s attitude to the female playback voice, too, was complicated. After all, voices are secret catalogues of social history. The voice we prefer at a certain moment in time tells something about ourselves.Around Independence, several singers such as Zohrabai Ambalewali, Rajkumari, Amirbai Karnataki, Shamshad Begum, Geeta Dutt, to name a few, jostled for space and ascendancy in Hindi film music. But within a few years, Lata Mangeshkar’s voice encapsulating purity and propriety became the gold standard for leading ladies and emerged decisively dominant.Asha Bhosle, almost four years younger, began her career under the shadow of her elder sister Lata. Keen to find her own voice, the Sangli-born singer listened to a farrago of foreign artistes: samba singer Carmen Miranda, the joyous Caterina Valente, even the breathless Elvis Presley, while trying to incorporate their styles in her rendition. “Slowly,” Asha revealed in an interview to composer Salil Chowdhury on DD Bangla in 1993, “I carved out a different style from my sister.”In time, the two voices became antonyms to each other. If Lata was the voice of the times, Asha was its hidden desire. Lata’s voice personified sincerity, virtuousness, consent — preferred and revered attributes of the time while Asha’s embodied wanting, abandon, dissent — traits frowned upon at the time. Lata’s voice conveyed the innocence of a morning hymn, the sanctity of a temple. Asha’s carried the sizzle of cabaret, the rush of a French kiss. Lata’s voice was the canon of the times, Asha’s a forecast of future freedoms.“Lata didi and I are like Mahatma Gandhi and Nehru. Gandhi was great; Nehru wasn’t bad either,” Asha told Outlook magazine in April, 2006.The sisters were fundamentally apart, not only in their voices, but also with their choices and in their personalities. She thinks with her “head”, me with my “heart”, Asha once said. Perhaps, circumstances played a role. Lata started singing for films at 13 after their father singer-actor Deenanath Mangeshkar’s untimely demise. She never married. Lata disapproved when Asha eloped. The younger sister had three children from a difficult first marriage. Interestingly, Asha’s early hits were children’s songs filmed on pre-teen boys like ‘De di hamey aazadi bina khadag bina dhal’, film: Jagriti, 1954), Chandamama door ke (film: Vachan, 1955).In the 1950s and 60s, Asha wasn’t the preferred singer of most A-list music directors, barring OP Nayyar, with whom she shared a close relationship. She was rarely the playback for major heroines. Nayyar – as well as composer Ravi — nourished her voice. She once credited BR Chopra for giving her the chance to sing for a big movie, Dilip Kumar’s ‘Naya Daur’ (music: OP Nayyar, 1957).By mid-60s, Asha had carved out her distinctiveness. Her range expanded. And her voice was richer in tone, more nuanced in texture. Three songs exemplify this. ‘Aagey bhi jaane na tu’ (Waqt, composer: Ravi, 1965) underlined a growing felicity for maximizing a tune by aligning each note with the lyrics’ emotional intent.In ‘Teesri Manzil’ (1966), young composer RD Burman rewrote Hindi film music’s grammar capturing the new musical zeitgeist. Singing for the film was like a dare for Asha, especially the breathless ‘Aaja aaja’, where her voice needed to pirouette, shake and shiver as if caught in the middle of a mating game. In ‘Teesri Kasam’, set in hinterland Bihar and released the same year, her rendition of ‘Pan khaye saiyan hamaaro’ was flawless flavouring the film with a folksy authenticity.The three songs belonged to three different musical worlds, but Asha seemed to be an honorary native to each of them.Music director RD Burman, whom she would marry in 1980, was an enabler. “…it was Pancham (RD Burman) who really exploited the full potential of my voice and challenged me to greater heights,” she told journalist Kavita Chhibber in a long 2003 interview. She added, “When he offered me Aaja aaja, I was petrified…but didi said you are a Mangeshkar and you can do it.” The remark reveals how Lata was also a mentor, though there are accounts to suggest differences, even a feature film, “Saaz”, which seemed to partly borrow from their lives, suggesting rivalry.Broadly speaking, RD preferred Lata for his more classical compositions. But the nightclubs with cigarette smoke and the grungy hippy joints were Asha’s fiefdom. These settings were home to some of the most furious and distinctive 70s rhythms. ‘Mera naam hai Shabnam’ (film: Kati Patang, 1970), ‘Piya tu ab to aaja’ (film: Caravan, 1971), ‘Dum maaro dum’ (film: Hare Rama Hare Krishna, 1972) and many more.In 1981, ‘Umrao Jaan’ (music: Khayyam) became to Asha what films like ‘Anarkali’ and ‘Pakeezah’ were to Lata. Her voice became an extension of the courtesan’s melancholic life. “Through her voice, you reach Umrao Jaan’s soul,” Khayyam told this reporter in 2008. The song, ‘Dil cheez kya hai,’ fetched her a national award. So did ‘Mera kuchh saamaan’ for Ijaazat (1987).Compared to Lata, Asha was more eager to embrace and adapt to shifting music trends. Hers was the deviant voice that the more conservative India sought to consign to the background. But as the country changed and evolved, she found wings. To Asha’s credit, she never stopped soaring.That’s what made her durable and relevant even when she stepped into her 90s. In 1980s, when disco was the celluloid favourite and ghazals the flavor of private albums, she sang ‘Disco Station’ for Bappi Lahiri (film: Hathkadi, 1982) and outshone Pakistani singer, Ghulam Ali, in Meraj-e-Ghazal (1983).When Indi-Pop took centre stage in the 1990s, she delivered one of its most memorable tracks, “Jaanam samjha karo. (1997)” Cutting tracks with personalities as divergent as Boy George and Brett Lee was part of an unrelenting journey to not only move with the times, but stay a beat ahead. Even in 2026, when 92, she hooked up with Gorillaz, a virtual British band, for “The Shadow of Light”!Much before the two sisters reached the autumn of their careers, Asha had become the preferred voice for a new generation of singers. She was their lighthouse and lodestar.Whether we like Asha or Lata has more to do with the person we are rather than the songs they sang. We see in their voices our own reflections. For true lovers of music, it is never Lata or Asha; it is always both.About the AuthorAvijit GhoshAvijit Ghosh is an associate editor with The Times of India. He is addicted to films, music, cricket and football—and not necessarily in that order. He is the author of Bandicoots in the Moonlight, Cinema Bhojpuri, 40 Retakes, and now, Up Campus, Down Campus, a novel set in 1980s JNU. He tweets from the handle @cinemawaleghoshRead MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosExplained: Supreme Court Backs Right to Vote but Denies Relief to Bengal’s Deleted VotersDelhi–Dehradun Expressway Inaugurated: How It Cuts Travel Time And Protects WildlifeIndia Engages Israel On Iran And Hormuz Crisis As Jaishankar Pushes Dialogue Amid Rising TensionsWhy Samrat Choudhary Emerges As Likely Bihar CM As BJP Gains Edge With Strong Majority In Assembly‘Gross Injustice If Delayed’: PM Modi Seeks Backing for Women’s Reservation BillHow Secret Police Operation Uncovered Abuse, Coercion, Religious Pressure; Firm Promises ActionAfter Violent Noida Unrest, Uttar Pradesh Govt Raises Wages In Urgent Bid To Restore Calm And TrustNoida Violence Under Scanner As Probe Explores Pakistan Link, 350 People Arrested In CrackdownED Arrests I-Pac Co-Founder Vinesh Chandel; Big Blow To TMC Ahead Of Bengal PollsIndia Receives Iranian Crude After 7 Years Amid Looming US Hormuz Blockade Crisis123Photostories9 unique food etiquette rules from around the worldTop 5 IT hubs in India driving real estate demandArgue without breaking up: 5 simple rules every couple needs to know‘Bhooth Bangla’, ‘Dacoit’ To ‘The Drama’: What to watch in theatres this Week5 things you can bake beyond bread in an OTGIsrael–Lebanon tensions flare again: Inside Hezbollah’s arsenal and Lebanon’s military hand against IsraelBaisakhi 2026 outfit ideas: Traditional looks inspired by Bollywood actressesThese places have the most eerie and bizarre natural formations10 mysteries hidden beneath the ocean floor that scientists still can’t explain8 Signs and Symptoms of Vitamin D Deficiency123Hot PicksIran warStock market holidayPurple cap winnerOrange cap winnerIPL Points TablePublic holidays April 2026Bank Holidays AprilTop TrendingDelhi-Dehradun ExpresswayStock market holidayBank holiday todayKaty PerryAnna Kepner murderDon TzuPraful HingeIPL Points TableKavya MaranNFL news roundup

PTI file photo Societies clinging to the past while dreaming of the future are often trapped between two mental states. India, just out of the clutches of colonialism, too experienced this duality in social order. In this general backdrop of ambiguity, the nation’s attitude to the female playback voice, too, was complicated. After all, voices are secret catalogues of social history. The voice we prefer at a certain moment in time tells something about ourselves.Around Independence, several singers such as Zohrabai Ambalewali, Rajkumari, Amirbai Karnataki, Shamshad Begum, Geeta Dutt, to name a few, jostled for space and ascendancy in Hindi film music. But within a few years, Lata Mangeshkar’s voice encapsulating purity and propriety became the gold standard for leading ladies and emerged decisively dominant.Asha Bhosle, almost four years younger, began her career under the shadow of her elder sister Lata. Keen to find her own voice, the Sangli-born singer listened to a farrago of foreign artistes: samba singer Carmen Miranda, the joyous Caterina Valente, even the breathless Elvis Presley, while trying to incorporate their styles in her rendition. “Slowly,” Asha revealed in an interview to composer Salil Chowdhury on DD Bangla in 1993, “I carved out a different style from my sister.”In time, the two voices became antonyms to each other. If Lata was the voice of the times, Asha was its hidden desire. Lata’s voice personified sincerity, virtuousness, consent — preferred and revered attributes of the time while Asha’s embodied wanting, abandon, dissent — traits frowned upon at the time. Lata’s voice conveyed the innocence of a morning hymn, the sanctity of a temple. Asha’s carried the sizzle of cabaret, the rush of a French kiss. Lata’s voice was the canon of the times, Asha’s a forecast of future freedoms.“Lata didi and I are like Mahatma Gandhi and Nehru. Gandhi was great; Nehru wasn’t bad either,” Asha told Outlook magazine in April, 2006.The sisters were fundamentally apart, not only in their voices, but also with their choices and in their personalities. She thinks with her “head”, me with my “heart”, Asha once said. Perhaps, circumstances played a role. Lata started singing for films at 13 after their father singer-actor Deenanath Mangeshkar’s untimely demise. She never married. Lata disapproved when Asha eloped. The younger sister had three children from a difficult first marriage. Interestingly, Asha’s early hits were children’s songs filmed on pre-teen boys like ‘De di hamey aazadi bina khadag bina dhal’, film: Jagriti, 1954), Chandamama door ke (film: Vachan, 1955).In the 1950s and 60s, Asha wasn’t the preferred singer of most A-list music directors, barring OP Nayyar, with whom she shared a close relationship. She was rarely the playback for major heroines. Nayyar – as well as composer Ravi — nourished her voice. She once credited BR Chopra for giving her the chance to sing for a big movie, Dilip Kumar’s ‘Naya Daur’ (music: OP Nayyar, 1957).By mid-60s, Asha had carved out her distinctiveness. Her range expanded. And her voice was richer in tone, more nuanced in texture. Three songs exemplify this. ‘Aagey bhi jaane na tu’ (Waqt, composer: Ravi, 1965) underlined a growing felicity for maximizing a tune by aligning each note with the lyrics’ emotional intent.In ‘Teesri Manzil’ (1966), young composer RD Burman rewrote Hindi film music’s grammar capturing the new musical zeitgeist. Singing for the film was like a dare for Asha, especially the breathless ‘Aaja aaja’, where her voice needed to pirouette, shake and shiver as if caught in the middle of a mating game. In ‘Teesri Kasam’, set in hinterland Bihar and released the same year, her rendition of ‘Pan khaye saiyan hamaaro’ was flawless flavouring the film with a folksy authenticity.The three songs belonged to three different musical worlds, but Asha seemed to be an honorary native to each of them.Music director RD Burman, whom she would marry in 1980, was an enabler. “…it was Pancham (RD Burman) who really exploited the full potential of my voice and challenged me to greater heights,” she told journalist Kavita Chhibber in a long 2003 interview. She added, “When he offered me Aaja aaja, I was petrified…but didi said you are a Mangeshkar and you can do it.” The remark reveals how Lata was also a mentor, though there are accounts to suggest differences, even a feature film, “Saaz”, which seemed to partly borrow from their lives, suggesting rivalry.Broadly speaking, RD preferred Lata for his more classical compositions. But the nightclubs with cigarette smoke and the grungy hippy joints were Asha’s fiefdom. These settings were home to some of the most furious and distinctive 70s rhythms. ‘Mera naam hai Shabnam’ (film: Kati Patang, 1970), ‘Piya tu ab to aaja’ (film: Caravan, 1971), ‘Dum maaro dum’ (film: Hare Rama Hare Krishna, 1972) and many more.In 1981, ‘Umrao Jaan’ (music: Khayyam) became to Asha what films like ‘Anarkali’ and ‘Pakeezah’ were to Lata. Her voice became an extension of the courtesan’s melancholic life. “Through her voice, you reach Umrao Jaan’s soul,” Khayyam told this reporter in 2008. The song, ‘Dil cheez kya hai,’ fetched her a national award. So did ‘Mera kuchh saamaan’ for Ijaazat (1987).Compared to Lata, Asha was more eager to embrace and adapt to shifting music trends. Hers was the deviant voice that the more conservative India sought to consign to the background. But as the country changed and evolved, she found wings. To Asha’s credit, she never stopped soaring.That’s what made her durable and relevant even when she stepped into her 90s. In 1980s, when disco was the celluloid favourite and ghazals the flavor of private albums, she sang ‘Disco Station’ for Bappi Lahiri (film: Hathkadi, 1982) and outshone Pakistani singer, Ghulam Ali, in Meraj-e-Ghazal (1983).When Indi-Pop took centre stage in the 1990s, she delivered one of its most memorable tracks, “Jaanam samjha karo. (1997)” Cutting tracks with personalities as divergent as Boy George and Brett Lee was part of an unrelenting journey to not only move with the times, but stay a beat ahead. Even in 2026, when 92, she hooked up with Gorillaz, a virtual British band, for “The Shadow of Light”!Much before the two sisters reached the autumn of their careers, Asha had become the preferred voice for a new generation of singers. She was their lighthouse and lodestar.Whether we like Asha or Lata has more to do with the person we are rather than the songs they sang. We see in their voices our own reflections. For true lovers of music, it is never Lata or Asha; it is always both.About the AuthorAvijit GhoshAvijit Ghosh is an associate editor with The Times of India. He is addicted to films, music, cricket and football—and not necessarily in that order. He is the author of Bandicoots in the Moonlight, Cinema Bhojpuri, 40 Retakes, and now, Up Campus, Down Campus, a novel set in 1980s JNU. He tweets from the handle @cinemawaleghoshRead MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosExplained: Supreme Court Backs Right to Vote but Denies Relief to Bengal’s Deleted VotersDelhi–Dehradun Expressway Inaugurated: How It Cuts Travel Time And Protects WildlifeIndia Engages Israel On Iran And Hormuz Crisis As Jaishankar Pushes Dialogue Amid Rising TensionsWhy Samrat Choudhary Emerges As Likely Bihar CM As BJP Gains Edge With Strong Majority In Assembly‘Gross Injustice If Delayed’: PM Modi Seeks Backing for Women’s Reservation BillHow Secret Police Operation Uncovered Abuse, Coercion, Religious Pressure; Firm Promises ActionAfter Violent Noida Unrest, Uttar Pradesh Govt Raises Wages In Urgent Bid To Restore Calm And TrustNoida Violence Under Scanner As Probe Explores Pakistan Link, 350 People Arrested In CrackdownED Arrests I-Pac Co-Founder Vinesh Chandel; Big Blow To TMC Ahead Of Bengal PollsIndia Receives Iranian Crude After 7 Years Amid Looming US Hormuz Blockade Crisis123Photostories9 unique food etiquette rules from around the worldTop 5 IT hubs in India driving real estate demandArgue without breaking up: 5 simple rules every couple needs to know‘Bhooth Bangla’, ‘Dacoit’ To ‘The Drama’: What to watch in theatres this Week5 things you can bake beyond bread in an OTGIsrael–Lebanon tensions flare again: Inside Hezbollah’s arsenal and Lebanon’s military hand against IsraelBaisakhi 2026 outfit ideas: Traditional looks inspired by Bollywood actressesThese places have the most eerie and bizarre natural formations10 mysteries hidden beneath the ocean floor that scientists still can’t explain8 Signs and Symptoms of Vitamin D Deficiency123Hot PicksIran warStock market holidayPurple cap winnerOrange cap winnerIPL Points TablePublic holidays April 2026Bank Holidays AprilTop TrendingDelhi-Dehradun ExpresswayStock market holidayBank holiday todayKaty PerryAnna Kepner murderDon TzuPraful HingeIPL Points TableKavya MaranNFL news roundup

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. NEW DELHI: At least nine workers were killed and 15 injured in a boiler explosion at Vedanta Limted power plant in Chhattisgarh’s Sakti district on Tuesday. “Nine workers have died, and 15 have sustained injuries,” Prafull Thakur, Sakti superintendent of police said, adding that the explosion occured in the afternoon.The SP further informed that right after the blast, local administration and police teams rushed to the site and the rescue operation was immediately launched to look for survivors.According to the police, three victims were killed on the spot, while the others succumbed to injuries at hospitals. Injured workers have also been admitted to the hospitals in the neighbouring Raigarh district as they undergo treatment.Raigarh SDM, Mahesh Sharma, said the probe was under way to examine the exact cause of the mishap. “A heartbreaking incident has taken place at the Vedanta Power plant today in which some workers have been injured, and their treatment is underway. Our investigation is ongoing,” he said.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosWomen’s Reservation Bill Explained: How 850-Seat Lok Sabha Plan Promises To Change Indian PoliticsExplained: Supreme Court Backs Right to Vote but Denies Relief to Bengal’s Deleted VotersDelhi–Dehradun Expressway Inaugurated: How It Cuts Travel Time And Protects WildlifeIndia Engages Israel On Iran And Hormuz Crisis As Jaishankar Pushes Dialogue Amid Rising TensionsWhy Samrat Choudhary Emerges As Likely Bihar CM As BJP Gains Edge With Strong Majority In Assembly‘Gross Injustice If Delayed’: PM Modi Seeks Backing for Women’s Reservation BillHow Secret Police Operation Uncovered Abuse, Coercion, Religious Pressure; Firm Promises ActionAfter Violent Noida Unrest, Uttar Pradesh Govt Raises Wages In Urgent Bid To Restore Calm And TrustNoida Violence Under Scanner As Probe Explores Pakistan Link, 350 People Arrested In CrackdownED Arrests I-Pac Co-Founder Vinesh Chandel; Big Blow To TMC Ahead Of Bengal Polls123Photostories9 unique food etiquette rules from around the worldTop 5 IT hubs in India driving real estate demand‘Bhooth Bangla’, ‘Dacoit’ To ‘The Drama’: What to watch in theatres this Week5 things you can bake beyond bread in an OTGIsrael–Lebanon tensions flare again: Inside Hezbollah’s arsenal and Lebanon’s military hand against IsraelBaisakhi 2026 outfit ideas: Traditional looks inspired by Bollywood actressesThese places have the most eerie and bizarre natural formations10 mysteries hidden beneath the ocean floor that scientists still can’t explain8 Signs and Symptoms of Vitamin D DeficiencyMumbai’s first closed-door local arrives, big safety shift on tracks123Hot PicksIran warStock market holidayPurple cap winnerOrange cap winnerIPL Points TablePublic holidays April 2026Bank Holidays AprilTop TrendingDelhi-Dehradun ExpresswayStock market holidayBank holiday todayKaty PerryAnna Kepner murderDon TzuPraful HingeIPL Points TableKavya MaranNFL news roundup

. NEW DELHI: At least nine workers were killed and 15 injured in a boiler explosion at Vedanta Limted power plant in Chhattisgarh’s Sakti district on Tuesday. “Nine workers have died, and 15 have sustained injuries,” Prafull Thakur, Sakti superintendent of police said, adding that the explosion occured in the afternoon.The SP further informed that right after the blast, local administration and police teams rushed to the site and the rescue operation was immediately launched to look for survivors.According to the police, three victims were killed on the spot, while the others succumbed to injuries at hospitals. Injured workers have also been admitted to the hospitals in the neighbouring Raigarh district as they undergo treatment.Raigarh SDM, Mahesh Sharma, said the probe was under way to examine the exact cause of the mishap. “A heartbreaking incident has taken place at the Vedanta Power plant today in which some workers have been injured, and their treatment is underway. Our investigation is ongoing,” he said.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosWomen’s Reservation Bill Explained: How 850-Seat Lok Sabha Plan Promises To Change Indian PoliticsExplained: Supreme Court Backs Right to Vote but Denies Relief to Bengal’s Deleted VotersDelhi–Dehradun Expressway Inaugurated: How It Cuts Travel Time And Protects WildlifeIndia Engages Israel On Iran And Hormuz Crisis As Jaishankar Pushes Dialogue Amid Rising TensionsWhy Samrat Choudhary Emerges As Likely Bihar CM As BJP Gains Edge With Strong Majority In Assembly‘Gross Injustice If Delayed’: PM Modi Seeks Backing for Women’s Reservation BillHow Secret Police Operation Uncovered Abuse, Coercion, Religious Pressure; Firm Promises ActionAfter Violent Noida Unrest, Uttar Pradesh Govt Raises Wages In Urgent Bid To Restore Calm And TrustNoida Violence Under Scanner As Probe Explores Pakistan Link, 350 People Arrested In CrackdownED Arrests I-Pac Co-Founder Vinesh Chandel; Big Blow To TMC Ahead Of Bengal Polls123Photostories9 unique food etiquette rules from around the worldTop 5 IT hubs in India driving real estate demand‘Bhooth Bangla’, ‘Dacoit’ To ‘The Drama’: What to watch in theatres this Week5 things you can bake beyond bread in an OTGIsrael–Lebanon tensions flare again: Inside Hezbollah’s arsenal and Lebanon’s military hand against IsraelBaisakhi 2026 outfit ideas: Traditional looks inspired by Bollywood actressesThese places have the most eerie and bizarre natural formations10 mysteries hidden beneath the ocean floor that scientists still can’t explain8 Signs and Symptoms of Vitamin D DeficiencyMumbai’s first closed-door local arrives, big safety shift on tracks123Hot PicksIran warStock market holidayPurple cap winnerOrange cap winnerIPL Points TablePublic holidays April 2026Bank Holidays AprilTop TrendingDelhi-Dehradun ExpresswayStock market holidayBank holiday todayKaty PerryAnna Kepner murderDon TzuPraful HingeIPL Points TableKavya MaranNFL news roundup

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Tamil Nadu CM MK Stalin (File photo) NEW DELHI: Tamil Nadu chief minister MK Stalin on Tuesday issued a sharp warning to the BJP-led central government over the proposed delimitation exercise, saying the state would launch massive protests if any move harmed Tamil Nadu’s interests or disproportionately increased the political influence of northern states.In a video message, Stalin renewed his charge that the delimitation process is being carried out without transparency and without consulting states or political parties. He alleged that the Centre is moving ahead unilaterally on a matter that could significantly alter the balance of political representation.“We do not even know how this delimitation exercise is going to be carried out. No explanation has been provided so far regarding the proposed Constitutional amendment.”He said the lack of clarity had deepened suspicion across southern states, especially Tamil Nadu, where concerns remain high over the possible consequences of population-based seat redistribution.Referring to the special session of Parliament scheduled for April 16, Stalin alleged that it had been “forcibly convened” in the middle of elections in Tamil Nadu and West Bengal, and claimed the Union government intended to push through a constitutional amendment on delimitation without adequate debate.“In this session, the Union government intends to bulldoze through a Constitutional amendment on delimitation,” he alleged.Calling the move a threat to federalism, Stalin said any attempt to reduce Tamil Nadu’s relative political weight would trigger a statewide backlash.“However, if anything is done that harms Tamil Nadu, or that disproportionately enhances the political power of northern states, we in Tamil Nadu will not remain silent,” Stalin was quoted as saying by news agency PTI.The DMK chief warned that the response would go beyond symbolic protest.“Tamil Nadu will register its protest with full force. Every family will take to the streets. Under my leadership as the chief minister of Tamil Nadu, we will organise a massive agitation.”Stalin also cautioned the Centre against assuming that the election season would distract attention from the issue, saying Tamil Nadu was prepared for a larger political confrontation if needed.“You will witness a Tamil Nadu that you have not seen before. India will once again witness the spirit of the DMK of the 1950s and 1960s. Do not mistake this for a threat. This is a warning. Even if you choose to interpret it as a threat, it does not concern us. Yes, this is a warning issued from Tamil Nadu.”Invoking the legacy of DMK founder CN Annadurai and late party patriarch M Karunanidhi, Stalin said the party viewed state rights as more important than electoral considerations.On the birth anniversary of Dr BR Ambedkar, he framed the issue as one of constitutional fairness and federal justice.“If Tamil Nadu is affected, we will make the entire nation take notice. Prime Minister, I repeat, this is the final warning issued to you from Tamil Nadu. Tamil Nadu will fight; Tamil Nadu will win.”Stalin said the DMK had consistently raised awareness on delimitation and had already brought together chief ministers and opposition leaders from affected states through a Joint Action Committee meeting in Chennai last year.He also pointed out that despite repeated demands, including calls for Prime Minister Narendra Modi to assure Parliament that southern states would not suffer under the new formula, no such assurance had been given.The chief minister added that even requests by MPs from multiple parties to meet the Prime Minister on the issue had been denied, reinforcing what he described as the Centre’s refusal to engage in meaningful consultation.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosDelhi–Dehradun Expressway Inaugurated: How It Cuts Travel Time And Protects WildlifeIndia Engages Israel On Iran And Hormuz Crisis As Jaishankar Pushes Dialogue Amid Rising TensionsWhy Samrat Choudhary Emerges As Likely Bihar CM As BJP Gains Edge With Strong Majority In Assembly‘Gross Injustice If Delayed’: PM Modi Seeks Backing for Women’s Reservation BillHow Secret Police Operation Uncovered Abuse, Coercion, Religious Pressure; Firm Promises ActionAfter Violent Noida Unrest, Uttar Pradesh Govt Raises Wages In Urgent Bid To Restore Calm And TrustNoida Violence Under Scanner As Probe Explores Pakistan Link, 350 People Arrested In CrackdownED Arrests I-Pac Co-Founder Vinesh Chandel; Big Blow To TMC Ahead Of Bengal PollsIndia Receives Iranian Crude After 7 Years Amid Looming US Hormuz Blockade CrisisVikram Misri Holds Key Talks With French FM, Discusses West Asia Conflict, Bilateral Ties123PhotostoriesTop 5 IT hubs in India driving real estate demandArgue without breaking up: 5 simple rules every couple needs to know‘Bhooth Bangla’, ‘Dacoit’ To ‘The Drama’: What to watch in theatres this Week5 things you can bake beyond bread in an OTGIsrael–Lebanon tensions flare again: Inside Hezbollah’s arsenal and Lebanon’s military hand against IsraelBaisakhi 2026 outfit ideas: Traditional looks inspired by Bollywood actressesThese places have the most eerie and bizarre natural formations10 mysteries hidden beneath the ocean floor that scientists still can’t explain8 Signs and Symptoms of Vitamin D DeficiencyMumbai’s first closed-door local arrives, big safety shift on tracks123Hot PicksIran warStock market holidayPurple cap winnerOrange cap winnerIPL Points TablePublic holidays April 2026Bank Holidays AprilTop TrendingDelhi-Dehradun ExpresswayStock market holidayBank holiday todayKaty PerryAnna Kepner murderDon TzuPraful HingeIPL Points TableKavya MaranNFL news roundup

Tamil Nadu CM MK Stalin (File photo) NEW DELHI: Tamil Nadu chief minister MK Stalin on Tuesday issued a sharp warning to the BJP-led central government over the proposed delimitation exercise, saying the state would launch massive protests if any move harmed Tamil Nadu’s interests or disproportionately increased the political influence of northern states.In a video message, Stalin renewed his charge that the delimitation process is being carried out without transparency and without consulting states or political parties. He alleged that the Centre is moving ahead unilaterally on a matter that could significantly alter the balance of political representation.“We do not even know how this delimitation exercise is going to be carried out. No explanation has been provided so far regarding the proposed Constitutional amendment.”He said the lack of clarity had deepened suspicion across southern states, especially Tamil Nadu, where concerns remain high over the possible consequences of population-based seat redistribution.Referring to the special session of Parliament scheduled for April 16, Stalin alleged that it had been “forcibly convened” in the middle of elections in Tamil Nadu and West Bengal, and claimed the Union government intended to push through a constitutional amendment on delimitation without adequate debate.“In this session, the Union government intends to bulldoze through a Constitutional amendment on delimitation,” he alleged.Calling the move a threat to federalism, Stalin said any attempt to reduce Tamil Nadu’s relative political weight would trigger a statewide backlash.“However, if anything is done that harms Tamil Nadu, or that disproportionately enhances the political power of northern states, we in Tamil Nadu will not remain silent,” Stalin was quoted as saying by news agency PTI.The DMK chief warned that the response would go beyond symbolic protest.“Tamil Nadu will register its protest with full force. Every family will take to the streets. Under my leadership as the chief minister of Tamil Nadu, we will organise a massive agitation.”Stalin also cautioned the Centre against assuming that the election season would distract attention from the issue, saying Tamil Nadu was prepared for a larger political confrontation if needed.“You will witness a Tamil Nadu that you have not seen before. India will once again witness the spirit of the DMK of the 1950s and 1960s. Do not mistake this for a threat. This is a warning. Even if you choose to interpret it as a threat, it does not concern us. Yes, this is a warning issued from Tamil Nadu.”Invoking the legacy of DMK founder CN Annadurai and late party patriarch M Karunanidhi, Stalin said the party viewed state rights as more important than electoral considerations.On the birth anniversary of Dr BR Ambedkar, he framed the issue as one of constitutional fairness and federal justice.“If Tamil Nadu is affected, we will make the entire nation take notice. Prime Minister, I repeat, this is the final warning issued to you from Tamil Nadu. Tamil Nadu will fight; Tamil Nadu will win.”Stalin said the DMK had consistently raised awareness on delimitation and had already brought together chief ministers and opposition leaders from affected states through a Joint Action Committee meeting in Chennai last year.He also pointed out that despite repeated demands, including calls for Prime Minister Narendra Modi to assure Parliament that southern states would not suffer under the new formula, no such assurance had been given.The chief minister added that even requests by MPs from multiple parties to meet the Prime Minister on the issue had been denied, reinforcing what he described as the Centre’s refusal to engage in meaningful consultation.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosDelhi–Dehradun Expressway Inaugurated: How It Cuts Travel Time And Protects WildlifeIndia Engages Israel On Iran And Hormuz Crisis As Jaishankar Pushes Dialogue Amid Rising TensionsWhy Samrat Choudhary Emerges As Likely Bihar CM As BJP Gains Edge With Strong Majority In Assembly‘Gross Injustice If Delayed’: PM Modi Seeks Backing for Women’s Reservation BillHow Secret Police Operation Uncovered Abuse, Coercion, Religious Pressure; Firm Promises ActionAfter Violent Noida Unrest, Uttar Pradesh Govt Raises Wages In Urgent Bid To Restore Calm And TrustNoida Violence Under Scanner As Probe Explores Pakistan Link, 350 People Arrested In CrackdownED Arrests I-Pac Co-Founder Vinesh Chandel; Big Blow To TMC Ahead Of Bengal PollsIndia Receives Iranian Crude After 7 Years Amid Looming US Hormuz Blockade CrisisVikram Misri Holds Key Talks With French FM, Discusses West Asia Conflict, Bilateral Ties123PhotostoriesTop 5 IT hubs in India driving real estate demandArgue without breaking up: 5 simple rules every couple needs to know‘Bhooth Bangla’, ‘Dacoit’ To ‘The Drama’: What to watch in theatres this Week5 things you can bake beyond bread in an OTGIsrael–Lebanon tensions flare again: Inside Hezbollah’s arsenal and Lebanon’s military hand against IsraelBaisakhi 2026 outfit ideas: Traditional looks inspired by Bollywood actressesThese places have the most eerie and bizarre natural formations10 mysteries hidden beneath the ocean floor that scientists still can’t explain8 Signs and Symptoms of Vitamin D DeficiencyMumbai’s first closed-door local arrives, big safety shift on tracks123Hot PicksIran warStock market holidayPurple cap winnerOrange cap winnerIPL Points TablePublic holidays April 2026Bank Holidays AprilTop TrendingDelhi-Dehradun ExpresswayStock market holidayBank holiday todayKaty PerryAnna Kepner murderDon TzuPraful HingeIPL Points TableKavya MaranNFL news roundup

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