Abida Parveen remembers Asha Bhosle as an artist ‘beyond words’

KARACHI: Sufi singer Abida Parveen has paid tribute to the late Indian music icon Asha Bhosle, remembering her as an extraordinary artist whose voice and artistry left a lasting mark on South Asian music.

In comments shared by BBC Urdu, Abida said Bhosle’s stature as a singer was difficult to capture in ordinary language. ‘She was beyond words,’ Abida said, adding that Bhosle was ‘a great singer’ and ‘a great artist’ whose work carried a rare depth.

Abida said Bhosle’s singing reflected both technical command and emotional power, and described her as a performer whose expression reached listeners in a profound way. She said Bhosle’s voice had a distinct quality and that her artistry stood apart.

Recalling her impression of the late singer, Abida said Bhosle possessed remarkable musical ability and an exceptional presence as a vocalist. She said her contribution to music would continue to be remembered.

Tribute after Bhosle’s death

The tribute came after news of Bhosle’s death prompted condolences and remembrance from across the region. Dawn reported that Abida’s remarks were carried by BBC Urdu as part of the response to the veteran singer’s passing.

Abida’s message focused on Bhosle’s artistic greatness and the emotional resonance of her singing. She said the late singer’s work could not be confined to simple praise, describing her as an artist whose talent exceeded conventional description.

Abida also said Bhosle was ‘a great singer’ and ‘a great artist’, underscoring the admiration she held for the late performer.

Bhosle was widely known across South Asia for a long career in playback singing and popular music. In her tribute, Abida highlighted the enduring quality of her voice and the impact of her musical legacy.

The remarks added to the wave of tributes that followed Bhosle’s death, with Abida’s message standing out for its emphasis on the singer’s artistic range and expressive power. Her comments reflected the respect Bhosle commanded among fellow musicians in Pakistan as well as beyond.

Abida’s tribute remained centered on Bhosle’s music, voice and stature as an artist, portraying her as a singer whose legacy would continue to resonate with audiences and musicians alike.