3 min readNew DelhiUpdated: Apr 12, 2026 02:07 PM IST
Asha Bhosle, one of the most iconic and versatile voices in India’s musical history, passed away on Sunday, leaving behind a legacy that shaped the soundscape of Indian cinema and music for over eight decades. Asha, one half of the Mangeshkar, was admitted to Breach Candy Hospital in Mumbai on Saturday evening due to “extreme exhaustion and chest infection”, her granddaughter Zanai Bhosle had shared on Instagram. Bhosle is survived by her son Anand and her grandchildren.
According to a PTI report, Dr Pratit Samdani at Breach Candy Hospital confirmed the tragic news, “Asha Bhosale breathed her last today in Breach Candy Hospital. She passed away due to multi-organ failure,” he had said.
Anand Bhosle, her son, told reporters outside the hospital, “She passed away today. Those who wish to pay their last respects can visit her residence tomorrow at 11 am. The last rites will be performed tomorrow at 4 pm at Shivaji Park.”
DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.
Dr Ravi Shekhar Jha, Head & Sr. Consultant Pulmonology & Sleep Medicine Fortis Escorts Hospital, Faridabad explained that chest infections or LRTI in very elderly people are common, and there are a few important reasons for this.
“With age, the body’s defence system becomes weaker. The cough reflex is not as strong (means they cant cough out the phlegm easily), so the mucus and germs are not cleared well from the airways. Many nonagenarians also have weak swallowing, so small amounts of food or saliva can go into the lungs without obvious choking. This leads to repeated infections,” he told indianexpress.com.
Another issue is reduced mobility. “When a person spends more time lying down or sitting, the lungs do not expand fully. This causes poor ventilation in the lower parts of the lungs, making it easier for infection to develop,” said Dr Jha. According to him, existing illnesses like COPD, heart disease, or diabetes further increase the risk. Even mild dehydration can thicken secretions and make clearance difficult.
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Why exhaustion is a warning sign
“Exhaustion is often the first sign rather than fever or cough. In older people, infections do not always present in a typical way. They may just feel weak, sleepy, or confused,” he shared.
Prevention is practical and important.
Dr Jha further elaborated that regular vaccination against influenza and pneumococcus helps. “Good oral care reduces the bacterial load in the mouth. Encouraging sitting up, walking, and simple breathing exercises improves lung expansion,” he said, adding that adequate hydration and nutrition also play a key role. For those with swallowing issues, proper feeding techniques and posture can reduce aspiration risk.
In short, this is a mix of ageing lungs, weaker defence, and lifestyle factors. Small preventive steps can make a real difference.
DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.