New Delhi: When 79-year-old Asha Bhosle stepped onto the runway at a Manish Malhotra fashion week show in March 2013, the audience witnessed a moment that went beyond fashion. Known across generations for a singing career that lasted over eight decades, the legendary artist surprised many by embracing the ramp with confidence and charm. Dressed elegantly, she walked not as a celebrity guest but as a woman fulfilling a personal wish. The applause that followed was immediate and heartfelt.

Years later, as news of her passing at 92 on April 12, 2026, at Mumbai’s Breach Candy Hospital after multiple organ failure spread, memories of that evening resurfaced. Among those who paid tribute was Manish Malhotra, who recalled her spirited presence and the rare standing ovation she received. That walk remains one of the most graceful crossovers between music and couture in Indian fashion history.

Asha Bhosle’s Manish Malhotra runway moment

Sharing photographs from the show on Instagram, Manish Malhotra remembered the Padma Vibhushan awardee with affection. “Aap ne sab ka dil churiya liya with your immense talent, your songs and your vivacious personality [You stole everyone’s heart],” he wrote.

Recalling the fashion week evening, he added, “These are pictures when you were at my fashion week show… You said I have one ichcha [wish] to walk on the ramp, and when we asked you to, you walked with so much elan, style, and happiness.”

“Everyone in the audience stood up as a mark of respect…”

The designer noted that the response in the room was unlike anything he had witnessed before. “Everyone in the audience stood up as a mark of respect… Something I haven’t seen ever… You have our dil [heart] forever Asha ji,” he concluded.

Here’s images of Asha Bhosle

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A post shared by Manish Malhotra (@manishmalhotra05)

One image captured her warmly engaging with guests, while Priyanka Chopra and Manish Malhotra stood beside her. Her final rites will take place in Mumbai, with her body kept at her Lower Parel residence until 3 pm, followed by the funeral at 4 pm on Monday at Shivaji Park.

Asha Bhosle’s ramp appearance was brief, yet unforgettable. In that single walk, she proved that elegance is timeless and true icons command every stage they step onto.