Maharashtra Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray on Sunday said that singing legend Lata Mangeshkar, who died at a hospital here in the morning, will be accorded a state funeral.
Lata Mangeshkar (92), the voice of generations of Indians and one of the biggest music icons of the country, died due to multiple organ failure, her sister Usha Mangeshkar and doctors treating her said.
The mortal remains of the late singer will be taken to her residence around 12:30 am. The last rites with full state honours will be conducted at Shivaji Park at 6.30pm today
Thackeray in a statement said Lata Mangeshkar's death was an end of a glorious era.
Her melodious voice was immortal, he said, adding that everyone was in grief after hearing about her demise.
"She will continue to live amongst us," the CM said in a statement.
The funeral will be held will state honours, he added.
"It is sad that Lata Mangeshkar has left us physically. She was a symbol of motherly blessing. Her voice has brought alive all situations in everyone's lives. Her voice broke the barriers of language, region, caste, creed and religion," Thackeray said.
The CM also said that Lata Mangeshkar shared warm relations with his family.
"She was an avid photographer and had the knowledge about good cameras and different lenses. We often discussed photography and she was present at my photo exhibitions to bless me. Recently when I was hospitalised, she enquired about my health," the chief minister said.
Earlier, the Central Government announced the two-day national mourning to be observed in memory of Lata Mangeshkar.
"The Government of India has decided that as a mark of respect to the departed dignitary 2 (two) days state mourning will be observed from February 6 (Sunday) to February 7 (Monday)," the government said in a statement.
During the state mourning, the National Flag is flown at half-mast throughout India, and there will be no official entertainment.
(With agency inputs)
