Bangladeshi playback singer and composer Runa Laila has said the world has lost a “rare jewel” following the death of legendary Indian singer Asha Bhosle.

In a Facebook post on Sunday afternoon, she wrote, “I am completely devastated. The world has lost a rare jewel, irreplaceable and unsurpassable."

Recalling her memories, she said, “As a child I would listen to Asha Didi’s songs and try to copy the superfine and finely honed intricacies in her unmatched voice. I learnt so much from her.”

She also shared her experience of working with Asha Bhosle on the reality show Sur Kshetra, saying they became very close during the programme.

“We laughed, joked, and gossiped so much that after a few episodes the producer placed us far apart so we couldn’t communicate easily. But Asha Didi insisted that I be seated in the chair next to her and of course you can’t say no to her,” she wrote.

Runa Laila added that Asha Bhosle often cooked biryani and prawns for her and brought them to the shoot.

“She would cook biryani and prawns for me and bring them to the shoot. We became good friends and loved and respected each other,” she wrote.

She also recalled their conversations and mutual respect, saying she always asked Asha Bhosle to address her by name instead of formal terms, but Asha Bhosle insisted on showing respect.

“I will miss our long conversations on the phone, endless gossip and hearing your voice again saying, ‘Runaji Aap kaisi hain ???’ May you rest in eternal peace,” she added.

Asha Bhosle, whose versatile voice captivated generations of music lovers, has died at the age of 92 in Mumbai.

Her son Anand Bhosle confirmed the death, saying her last rites will be held at Shivaji Park in Mumbai at 4pm on Monday reports NDTV.

The veteran singer was admitted to Breach Candy Hospital on April 11 after suffering from extreme exhaustion and a chest infection, according to her granddaughter Zanai Bhosle.

Asha Bhosle enjoyed a remarkable career spanning more than eight decades, delivering numerous hit songs including “Piya Tu Ab To Aaja”, “Kajra Mohabbat Wala”, “Rangeela Re” and “Dil Cheez Kya Hai”. Her death has deeply saddened fans across generations.

She began her musical journey at the age of 10, recording her first song for the Marathi film Majha Bal in 1943. Though initially known for lively dance numbers, she later proved her versatility with ghazals and classical songs.

The younger sister of iconic singer Lata Mangeshkar, Asha carved out her own identity in the music industry despite frequent comparisons. Their bond remained strong despite long-standing rumours of rivalry.