YFLO kick started the year with Ashaji; a legend; an icon; a woman who is truly inspirational. She arrived in her usual unassuming manner, but took the stage by storm. As she started narrating anecdotes from her life, it was clear that this lady was made of steel. Indeed an apt beginning to inspire the women from YFLO. She is a dynamic lady who never knew the meaning of backing down. She exudes energy, will power and determination.
Ashaji very touchingly told the gathering how she had to struggle, being turned away from studios, but didn’t let anything deter her resolve – she had children to feed and she had to sing to make ends meet. She sang whatever she got. And what she sang became super hits! Her competition back in the day was none other than her older sister, LataMangeshkar, NoorJehan among others. Ashatai said “Agar aapnesochliyekiyehhogakinahin, tohmaanlijiyekiyehnahinhoga”. Whenever doubt enters your mind, your resolve will weaken.
Sayema added spunk to the event, by allowing people to ask questions. While Ashaji answered all questions in a jiffy, the one that baffled her for a bit was “which role has inspired you the most – that of a daughter, wife or mother?” After some thought, Ashaji said mother. She had of course mentioned that her son couldn’t handle seeing her tired or helpless, and this gave her the strength to continue. Seeing a legend like Ashaji speak candidly was nothing short of phenomenal. She spoke of her trials, her struggles and her triumphs with emotion. The audience was inspired and awed as she narrated anecdote after anecdote.
The 81-year-old veteran didn’t leave it at just inspirational talk. As the morning was drawing to a close, in true ‘Asha’ style, she quietly walked up to the front of the stage, and much to everyone amazement sang “In aankhonkimasti main”. A fitting crescendo end to a fantastic morning.
