Asha Bhosle was honoured by MI and RCB players (Courtesy: PTI)

IPL 2026: RCB, MI stars pay homage to Asha Bhosle at Wankhede, sport black armbands

Mumbai Indians and RCB players paid homage to the legendary Asha Bhosle ahead of their game at the Wankhede stadium on Sunday, April 12. Both teams are wearing black armbands to remember the iconic singer.

12 Apr 2026, 15:05 by Alan Jose John · India Today

In Short

Mumbai Indians and RCB wore black armbands to honour Asha Bhosle
Moment of silence observed at Wankhede Stadium before the match
Asha Bhosle shaped Hindi film music from 1950s to 1970s

The Mumbai Indians and Royal Challengers Bengaluru honoured the late Asha Bhosle during their match on Sunday, April 12. The legendary singer passed away at the age of 92, and both teams wore black armbands as a mark of respect.

A moment of silence was observed by players and fans at Wankhede Stadium before the game to remember Bhosle’s immense contribution to Indian music. Asha Bhosle was widely recognised as one of Bollywood’s defining voices during its golden era. Alongside contemporaries such as Lata Mangeshkar, Mohammad Rafi, and Kishore Kumar, she played a crucial role in shaping Hindi film music from the 1950s to the 1970s.

Her career spanned over eight decades, earning her some of India’s highest honours. Bhosle received the Dadasaheb Phalke Award in 2000 for her outstanding contribution to Indian cinema and the Padma Vibhushan in 2008. She also won two National Film Awards for Best Female Playback Singer for songs from Umrao Jaan and Ijaazat.

KOHLI, TENDULKAR LEAD THE WAY WITH TRIBUTES

Virat Kohli, who is taking part in the game, posted a story on his Instagram stories to remember Bhosle on Sunday. The RCB star said that the legendary singer's voice touched millions and she will remain immortal.

"Rest in peace Asha Bhosle ji. You voice touched millions and will live on forever in our hearts. Om Shanti," said Kohli.

(Credit: Kohli Instagram)

Sachin Tendulkar, who is present with the MI camp, had put an emotional message for Bhosle ahead of the start of the game. The Indian cricket legend said that the singer was family for him.

"A deeply sad day for India, and for music lovers across the world. For us, Asha Tai was family. Today, words feel too small for the loss we feel. One moment the heart falls silent, and the next, it drifts through the countless melodies she gifted all of us."

"It feels as though time itself has paused. Yet through her eternal songs, she will remain timeless forever. Thank you, Tai, for filling our lives with warmth, grace, and unforgettable music. We will miss you beyond words, Asha Tai," said Tendulkar on X.

(Credit: Sachin Tendulkar X)

Other prominent cricketers, including Yuvraj Singh and Harbhajan Singh, also paid their respects to the legendary singer.

- Ends