Play It Back

"I love taking on new challenges, and to perform with Western pop stars and classic artistes was a challenge for me," she says. "Having said that, music is music whether it's Indian or Western. The same seven musical notes in different ways are used in every song and tune, so it was not rocket science to perform with international stars."

With that attitude, it should come as no surprise that Bhosle has also excelled at one of India's other master arts: cooking. Her international restaurant chain Asha's feeds souls and stomachs in Dubai and Kuwait, and will soon be doing the same throughout the United Kingdom.

"There must be something in music that simulates their taste buds, because if [musicians] don't cook, they certainly appreciate good cooking," she says. "For me, dishing out a fine recipe is almost like singing a great tune." And yes, while most of us wish we could whistle while we work, Bhosle says she really does break out in song while she brews up her curried concoctions.

At 74 (and a half), Bhosle says she's content to bask in the satisfaction of her Platinum Jubilee Year, but what comes next is a matter of divine intervention. "At my age, I don't enjoy the luxury to make future plans. I can only propose and let HIM dispose," she says, making reference to her Hindi deity. "Having said that, I would like to add that it's been a wonderful life, and it's not over yet!"

Back at Beach Food Market, a long line of customers has now piled up as Chowdhury waxes rhapsodic over Bhosle. "If she sang more in English, then everybody would know she's actually the best in the whole world," he tells the line, adding he's pretty confident that Bhosle's god will shine in her favor. "I'd say she has at least another 50 years, but I'd really like her to have 75 more."