The year 2011 saw a unique collaboration between two musical icons: Lata Mangeshkar and Mehdi Hassan. Due to Hassan’s poor health, the duet, “Tera Milna Bahut Achcha Lage Hai”, was recorded without them meeting in person, a testament to the power of music to overcome obstacles. This marked the culmination of a long-held wish to work together.
Hassan, confined by illness, composed the basic track and sent it to Mangeshkar, who sought the help of composer Mayuresh Pai to arrange the music. Despite the challenges, the song brought together the voices of two musical giants and became a symbol of unity between India and Pakistan.
Mangeshkar fondly remembered Hassan’s unparalleled vocal talent and spoke of her deep sadness regarding his suffering in the later years of his life. She recounted her first meeting with him and his performance in Mumbai and their last meeting. She remembered his only regret was the inability to sing with her. She also highlighted the circumstances surrounding their unique duet.