Usha Mangeshkar Biography: Life Story, Career, Family, Songs & Achievements
Introduction
Usha Mangeshkar is a renowned Indian playback singer, best known for her melodious voice and contribution to Bollywood, devotional, and regional music. As the younger sister of legendary singers Lata Mangeshkar and Asha Bhosle, Usha carved her own niche with memorable hits like Mungda (Inkaar), Jai Santoshi Maa Bhajan, and countless Marathi, Gujarati, and devotional songs. With a career spanning over five decades, she remains one of the most respected voices in Indian music.
Personal Information
- Full Name: Usha Mangeshkar
- Date of Birth: 15 December 1935
- Birthplace: Indore, Madhya Pradesh, India
- Nationality: Indian
- Occupation: Playback Singer
- Zodiac Sign: Sagittarius
- Parents: Deenanath Mangeshkar (classical singer) & Shevanti Mangeshkar
- Siblings: Lata Mangeshkar, Asha Bhosle, Hridaynath Mangeshkar, Meena Khadikar
Physical Appearance
- Height: 5 feet 3 inches (160 cm)
- Weight: Approx. 60 kg
- Hair Color: Black (now grey)
- Eye Color: Dark Brown
Early Life & Family Background
Born into the legendary Mangeshkar family, Usha inherited a rich musical legacy from her father, Deenanath Mangeshkar, a noted classical singer and stage actor. Surrounded by music since childhood, she naturally gravitated towards singing and was encouraged by her elder sisters, particularly Lata Mangeshkar.
Musical Journey & Career Highlights
Bollywood Career
Usha Mangeshkar entered playback singing in the 1950s and quickly became known for her sweet, expressive voice.
Some of her most popular songs include:
- “Mungda” (Inkaar, 1977) – one of her career-defining hits.
- “Jai Santoshi Maa” Bhajans (Jai Santoshi Maa, 1975) – devotional songs that became cultural phenomena.
- Jab Jab Bahar Aayi Aur Phool Muskuraye (Taqdeer, 1967).
Devotional & Regional Music
Apart from Bollywood, Usha Mangeshkar is celebrated for her devotional and regional songs:
- Marathi & Gujarati music – she became a leading voice for folk and devotional albums.
- Jai Santoshi Maa (1975) – her devotional songs from this film created a wave of faith across India.
Collaborations
She worked with top music directors like R.D. Burman, Laxmikant–Pyarelal, Kalyanji–Anandji, and Bappi Lahiri, often singing duets with Kishore Kumar, Mohammed Rafi, and Mukesh.
Awards & Achievements
- Recognized for her devotional singing through numerous cultural honors.
- Filmfare nominations for songs like Mungda.
- Honored by various state governments for her contribution to Indian music.
- Part of the globally celebrated Mangeshkar legacy.
Personal Life
Usha Mangeshkar has always maintained a low profile compared to her sisters, focusing more on her music than public appearances. She remains close to her family and has contributed significantly to preserving the Mangeshkar musical tradition.
Legacy & Influence
Usha Mangeshkar is celebrated not only as the sister of Lata Mangeshkar and Asha Bhosle but also as a talented singer in her own right. Her devotional songs, especially those from Jai Santoshi Maa, and her Bollywood hits like Mungda continue to resonate with audiences. She represents the golden era of Indian playback singing and remains an inspiration for singers pursuing devotional and folk genres.
FAQs
1. What is Usha Mangeshkar’s most famous Bollywood song?
Mungda from Inkaar (1977).
2. Did Usha Mangeshkar sing devotional songs?
Yes, especially the iconic Jai Santoshi Maa bhajans.
3. Who are Usha Mangeshkar’s famous siblings?
Lata Mangeshkar, Asha Bhosle, Hridaynath Mangeshkar, and Meena Khadikar.
4. In which languages has she sung?
Primarily Hindi, Marathi, and Gujarati.
5. Is Usha Mangeshkar still active in music?
Though less active in Bollywood today, she occasionally contributes to special projects and devotional albums.
