Lata Mangeshkar on the Bachchans’ testing COVID-19 positive

“It’s like a slap in the face,” says India’s greatest singer Lata Mangeshkar about Amitabh Bachchan and his family testing positive for COVID-19.

Lataji has been upset ever since she heard the news. “It is hard to believe that the virus has struck Bachchan Saab and his family. The virus spares no one. We need to understand that it is here to stay. It’s not going anywhere for some time now.”

Lataji has a special fondness for the Bachchans. “Both Amitabhji and Jayaji give me a lot of love and respect. I know they are very fond of, as I am of them. I am a big fan of the works of both especially in the films where they were cast together like Abhimaan, Zanjeer and Silsila. I wish them a speedy recovery. I am sure all of them Amitabhji, Jayaji, Aishwarya, Abhishek and their daughter Aaradhya will be fine in no time at all.”

Lataji is especially worried about little Aaradhya, "Choti hai woh. Bachchi hai. Ussey aise kasht nahi honi chahiye. Main poore parivar ke liye duayen mangtee hoon aur khaas kar ke Aaradhya ke liye (she is a child she shouldn't suffer .I pray for the entire Bachchan family and specially for Aaradhya)."

The Nightingale who was seriously ill and in Hospital in November-December 2019 is worried for Mr Bachchan’s immunity system. “He has been very unwell in the past.And his body has taken a lot of stress. His immunity level must be low. But I am sure he can fight back.”

Lataji has been in complete quarantine throughout the lockdown. “I don’t meet anyone. I've two full-time in house nurses to look after me. My doctors have advised me against it. I spend my time on my own praying, meditating, watching television, reading, resting, and sleeping. Everyone should try to enjoy their own company. It is a learning experience.”