Manoj Muntashir Pays Emotional Tribute to Lata Mangeshkar on Indian Idol
NEW DELHI: Lyricist Manoj Muntashir recently paid a heartfelt tribute to the late legendary playback singer Lata Mangeshkar on the latest episode of the popular singing reality show Indian Idol.
The special episode featured contestants performing some of Lata Mangeshkar’s most cherished songs, celebrating her timeless legacy and emotional connection with generations of music lovers.
Emotional Tribute on National Television
During the episode, Manoj Muntashir shared personal memories of his association with Lata Mangeshkar and spoke about the deep impact she had on his life and career.
“Indian Idol is a wonderful platform that nurtures young talent and bridges generations through music. Every time I return to the show, it feels special,” he said.
Calling the tribute deeply personal, Muntashir added that Lata Mangeshkar had lent her voice to his first song and that they remained in touch until her final days.
“She had even expressed her wish for me to write a song for her. That makes this episode incredibly emotional for me,” he said.
Celebrating a Golden Era of Music
The episode also paid tribute to the legendary composer duo Kalyanji–Anandji, whose compositions played a major role in shaping Hindi film music.
Contestants performed classic tracks associated with Lata Mangeshkar and Kalyanji–Anandji, taking viewers back to what is often described as the golden era of Indian music.
“Listening to these compositions feels like stepping into a golden chapter of Indian music,” Muntashir said.
“Lata ji was more than just a singer. She was an emotion that continues to live in every generation.”
Personal Bond With the Legendary Singer
Manoj Muntashir also spoke about his close personal bond with Lata Mangeshkar, describing her as a guiding presence in his early career.
He said working with her on his first song was a life-changing moment and remained one of his most treasured professional experiences.
“Her melodies are eternal. Being part of this tribute is truly an honour,” he added.
His remarks were met with emotional reactions from judges, contestants, and the audience, making the episode one of the most touching moments of the current season.
Audience Response and Industry Reaction
Viewers took to social media to praise the episode for its emotional depth and respectful portrayal of Lata Mangeshkar’s legacy.
Several music lovers and industry professionals described the tribute as a fitting reminder of her unparalleled contribution to Indian music.
Many fans also appreciated Manoj Muntashir’s candid storytelling, which added a personal and human touch to the tribute.
About the Show
Indian Idol continues to remain one of the country’s most-watched music reality shows, known for discovering and promoting young singing talent.
The programme airs on Sony Entertainment Television and is also available for streaming on Sony LIV.
The special episode dedicated to Lata Mangeshkar is part of the show’s effort to honour legendary artists who have shaped Indian music.
Conclusion
Manoj Muntashir’s emotional tribute to Lata Mangeshkar added depth and meaning to the Indian Idol episode, reminding viewers of the singer’s lasting influence.
Through music, memories, and personal reflections, the show celebrated not just her songs but also the values and emotions she brought to Indian cinema.
The episode stood out as a sincere homage to a voice that continues to resonate across generations.
Our Thoughts
Tributes like these underline why Lata Mangeshkar remains unmatched in Indian music history. Manoj Muntashir’s personal recollections brought authenticity and warmth to the episode, making it more than just a musical celebration.
By connecting young performers with legends of the past, Indian Idol continues to preserve India’s rich musical heritage. Such moments help ensure that the legacy of icons like Lata Mangeshkar lives on, not only through recordings but also through stories, emotions, and inspiration.