Description
Lata Mangeshkar, often referred to as the Nightingale of India, was more than just a singer—she was an institution, a voice that defined generations, and a beacon of artistic excellence. Her journey, spanning over seven decades, is not merely a story of success but a testament to dedication, perseverance, and the transcendent power of music. It is with great humility and immense respect that I present Melody of a Nation: Life and Legacy of Lata Mangeshkar. This book is an attempt to chronicle not just the life of an extraordinary artist but also the essence of her contribution to Indian culture and the world of music. From her humble beginnings in Indore to becoming a global icon, Lataji’s story is intertwined with the evolution of Indian cinema and the socio-cultural fabric of the nation. Her songs became anthems of love, patriotism, and spirituality, resonating with millions across linguistic and geographic barriers. In these pages, I have sought to explore her journey as an artist and as a person. Through interviews, archival research, and conversations with those who knew and worked with her, I have attempted to paint a portrait of Lataji that goes beyond her public persona. Her collaborations with legendary composers, her tireless pursuit of perfection, and her ability to adapt to changing times are themes that run through this narrative. At its heart, this book is a celebration of Lata Mangeshkar’s legacy—a legacy that continues to inspire, comfort, and bring joy to people worldwide. It is also a humble tribute to the golden age of Indian music and the countless artists who contributed to it. I am deeply grateful to Sonali Roy for her insightful editing, which has added clarity and depth to this work, and to everyone who shared their memories, insights, and perspectives on Lataji’s life. Their contributions have enriched this book immeasurably.
Pradip Kumar Ray
he author retired from his long-standing career in banking, with his final post being Chief Manager (Offing) at the Purshura Branch of State Bank of India (SBI). Throughout his career, he served in various roles such as Branch Manager, HR Manager, System Manager etc , gaining a wealth of experience across multiple banking functions. During this time, he also nurtured a hobby of discovering magic and writing, which led to the publication of his first book, “Prerana” in 2013. His written works have been featured in several prominent newspapers and magazines, and his expertise in magic earned him a mention in the Magicians’ World Directory.
In terms of academic qualifications, the author holds a BSc (Honours in Physics), MSc (Computer Science), and a Post Graduate Diploma in Computer Applications (PGDCA). He is a Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA)(Global) and a Certified Associate of the Indian Institute of Banking (CAIIB). Additionally, he has completed various certification courses in photo, video, and audio editing, animation, hardware, cobol programming, “Praggya” Hindi courses, and a certification course from the Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI).
Post-retirement, the author has remained active by collaborating with different academies as a subject-matter expert in banking. He also runs a YouTube channel, Facebook page, website, and blog, where he continues to engage his audience. Additionally, the author contributes to stock photography, writes articles, and publishes his own books. To date, he has authored over 120 books, many of which are available through national and international online platforms. Some of his published works include:
In Bengali: 1) Prerana 2) Anuprerana 3) Chetana 4) Mahabharate Ki Ki Tathya Chitrita Achhe JA Ajo Prasangik? 5) Puran Kahineer Antarnihita Artha 5) Ramayaner Ajana Tathya 6) Ki Vabe Manabik Gunabalir Jagaran Sambhab Ja Antarer Alo Jwalay 7) Manab Monobiganer Upar Bhagbat Grrtar Gavir Pravab 8) Karna O Ekalabya
–Mahabharater Na Bala Galpa 9) Dhurta Shakuni-Mahabharater Na Bala Galpa 10) Manabatar Pujari Swalpa Prichita Bharatiyer Kahinee
11) Ashepasher Gachh Gachhalir Soundarya O Oshadhi Gun. 12) Jana Manusher Ajana Kahinee 13) Baba Mane- Maa Mane–14) Kalpanay, Kheyalr O Kathane Corona 15) Nijer Madhyei Nije 16) Bharater Sampurna Binamulyer Besarkari Hospital 17) Krishna – Mahabharater Paradoxical O Jatil Charitra 18) ShibaPuran :Adhyatya O Bigyaner Apurba Sammilan.
In English: 1) How to Write Banking Letters (For Bankers & Customers) More than 120 Relevant sample letters. 2) How to Write an Email (Ethics, Examples & Samples of Emails).3) GENERAL APTITUDE ( CSIR Net-Previous Q & A with explanation and hint to solve) 4) Certificate Examination of Business Correspondent 5) MCQ with Answers for BC & BF Examination 6) Certificate Examination for Debt Recovery Agent of IIBF 7) Secrets of Motivation & Inspiration 8) How to Improve Your Mental Strength 9) Totally Free Best Private Hospitals in India 10) The Story of a Little-Known Indian Worshiper of Humanity 11) Unpopular but Attracting with Historical Interest Tourist Place in Bardhhaman. 12) ‘Corona’ in Imagination, Troll & Mimes. 13) Short Stories and Tales 14) How Human Qualities Awakening Possible which Ignites Light in the Heart 15) Karna & Ekalavya – The Untold Story of the Mahabharata 16) Transform Your Thinking, Transform Your Life 17) Unknown Facts Of Epic Ramayana 18) Ekalavya – The Untold Story of the Mahabharata19) Overcoming Adversity: A Journey of Love and Resilience 20) Meg’s Mission: Pushing the Boundaries of Healthcare 21) Ideas to develop a multi-user Portable medical devise related to blood for use at home by beginners and Researchers 22) How to Prepare Delicious Recipes for Every Occasion, The Bengali Bites 23) The Inner Light Reflections(Compassion, Resilience, Empathy) 24) Perseverance: The Key to Unlocking Your Potential 25) More than a Hundred Inventing Ideas on Microfluidics 26) Awakening Your Inner Drive: The Power of Motivation, Inspiration, and Consciousness 27) The Lost Planet 28) Unleashing the Power of Supreme Energy 29)Folding Space: The Quest for Three-Dimensional Folding 30)From Despair to Triumph: A Tale of Courage and Hope 31) The Unseen Hero (A Journey of Self-Discovery) 32) AI Magic: Free Tools for Perfecting Your Images (A Step-By-Step Guide) 33 )The Untold Story of Karna: A Tale of Perseverance and Determination 33) Dad Means–Mom Means—34) Fundamentals of IT 35) How to do Your Life as much as Simple 36) Step By Step Guide (INB,CDM & ATM of Axis Bank) 37) Step By Step Guide (INB,CDM & ATM of SBI) 38) Durgapujor Prakkale 39) Step by Step Guide: SBI Credit Card 40) Step By Step Guide: SBI Internet Banking 41) Keys to Success: Lessons for Reaching Goals and Overcoming Challenges 42)Krishna: The Paradoxical and Complex Character in the Mahabharata 43) Comparative Analysis of Six World-Famous Ancient Epics 44) Journey to Ancient Greece: Discovering the Iliad and Odyssey 45) Echoes of the North: Kalevala Rediscovered 46) Digital Banking Ready Reference for Customer 47) A Comprehensive Guide on IBPS Preli Clerk Exam, 48) NEET Exam: Biology Mastering Concepts with 1200+ MCQs & Answers 49) Indian Economy and Indian Financial System (IE & IFS) 50)Competitive Examination of Railways: Unlocking Your Path to a Rewarding Career,51)Comparative Analysis of Six World-Famous Ancient Epics 52) Beyond the Horizon: Unveiling Motivation, Awakening Light, and the Journey of Conscious Empathy 53) Principles & Practices of Banking (PPB) 54) Accounting and Financial Management for Bankers (AFM) 55) Retail Banking and Wealth Management (RBM) 56) JAIIB ALL IN ONE 57) Timeless Teaching of the Bhagbad Gita on Human Psychology 58) Exploring the Theatrical and Cinematic Worlds of Ramayana 59) The Divine Threads (Krishna's Influence in the Mahabharata) 60) The Mahabharata and Its Significance in Contemporary Society 61) Basics of Information Technology 62) Legends of Ramayana: A Timeless Epic 63) BC & BF Exam Prep: Multiple Choice Questions with Answers 64) Aspire, Achieve, Inspire - A Journey to Fulfilling Dreams 65) Scrolls of Health : Exploring Ancient Medical Manuscripts 66) Exploring Vedic Thought From Knowledge to Liberation 67) Evolution of Bengali Literary Heritage 68) International Literary Heritage 69) Dad Means Dad: The Unexplored Hero 70) Mom Means Mom : the Unconditional Eternal Love 71) Self Within Myself 72) Exploring the Comparative Analysis of Six Legendary Epics 73) Durga Puja Narrative: A Celebration in Bengal 74) Bengali Dishes Classic Modern Twists 75) Rise and Shine : Daily Habits for Student Success 76) Ignite Your Spark 77) From Loser to Legend: The Power of Motivation 78) Exploring the Theatrical and Cinematic Worlds of Ramayana 79) The Inherent Meaning of Mythology 80) The Mahabharata and Its Significance in Contemporary Society 81) Krishna : The Divine Threads of the Mahabharata 82) How to Develop Your Mental Strength (Motivational & Inspirational) 83) The Mindful Parent Nurturing Emotional Intelligence in Children 84) Inspirational Insights For a Fulfilled Life 85) Aspire, Achieve, Inspire - A Journey to Fulfilling Dreams 86) The Divine Threads (Krishna's Influence in the Mahabharata) etc.
In Hindi: 1) Prerak Koushal Me Sudhar Kaise Kare. 2) Chhatra Aour Bankaro Ke Lie Banking. 3) “Corona” – Kathan, Troll & Mimes. 4) Oitihasik Akarshak Parjatan Sthal, Burdwan 5) Apni Manasik Shakti Ka Bikash Kaise Kre 6) Sambandha Bipanan Shikhne Ka Sabse Achchha Tarika 7) Share Trading Me Monobigyan Aur Anushashan Kaise Shikhe 8) Unnata Video Marketing Kaise Kare 9) SEO Keya Hai Aur Kaise Kam Karta Hai 10) Banking Patra Kaise Likhe? 11) Karna O Ekalabya – Mahabharat Ki Unkahi Kahinee 12) Naye Sight Se ISBN Kaise Prapta Kare? 13) Alpa Gyat Bharatiya Upasak Ki Kahani (Series-1,2&3) 14) Krishna- Mahabharat Me BirodhBhashi O Jatil Charitra 15) Chhay Bishwa Prasiddha Prachin Mahakabya Ka Tulanatmak Bishleshan etc. - Publisher (Pkrbur Publication).
Website: https://pkrbur.com & https://bit.ly/PKRBOOK
Email:pkrbur@gmail.com & pradip.ray1911@gmail.com
