Lata Mangeshkar used to compose music under male name Anandghan in Marathi

Lata Mangeshkar was a quintessential part of the paradigm shift of the Indian music industry. But, did you know that she also wrote music in Marathi under a male name?

India's Nightingale left for her heavenly abode yesterday February 6. Lata Mangeshkar was admitted to Mumbai's Breach Candy hospital on January 8 after she was diagnosed with Covid-19 and pneumonia. The singer left behind a legacy and a plethora of memories. But, apart from her mesmerizing songs, did you know that Lata di composed music under a pseudonym?

Amongst the many talents displayed by Lata Mangeshkar, one remained unknown to the public for a long time. The singer had started composing Marathi music under a pseudonym. She adopted a male name and wrote as 'Anandghan'.

The same was revealed in her book, Lata Mangeshkar in Her Own Voice. She said that she used to quietly compose music for films in her native Marathi language.

Lata Mangeshkar also shared that she wanted to keep her identity as a composer a secret but the world got to know about it during an awards ceremony. Her cover blew during an award function, when Sadhi Manas, for which she wrote the music, ended up winning multiple awards.

"No one knew I was composing film music, but then Sadhi Manas went on to win eight Maharashtra state awards, including best director, best singer, best story and best music," she said in the book written by London-based documentary filmmaker, Nasreen Munni Kabeer.

Talking more about the incident, Lata didi had said, "I stayed firmly in my seat. The master of ceremonies explained the music composer Anandghan was none other than Lata Mangeshkar. So I was forced to publicly accept the award,” said the late singer.

How will you remember Lata Mangeshkar? Pay your tributes here.