Pune witnessed an emotional and historic moment as the foundation stone of the LataAsha Mangeshkar Institute of Medical Sciences was laid at Nandoshi on Sinhagad Road. The ceremony was accompanied by a solemn Shraddhanjali Sabha, where dignitaries, family members and admirers gathered to honour the legacy of the Mangeshkar family while marking the beginning of a major healthcare initiative.
The event was presided over by Mohan Bhagwat. Among the chief guests were Devendra Fadnavis, Eknath Shinde and Sunetra Pawar. Members of the Mangeshkar and Bhosale families were also present, adding a deeply personal dimension to the occasion.
Envisioned as a world-class centre, the institute will span 40 acres and offer a comprehensive healthcare and education ecosystem. Plans include a superspeciality hospital, a dedicated palliative care centre, a psychiatry hospital and facilities for holistic healing such as a nature cure institute. The campus will also house affordable accommodation for patients’ families and a small animal veterinary hospital.
A key highlight is the establishment of a medical college by the Maharshi Karve Women’s Education Centre, positioning the institute as a leading hub for both healthcare and medical education in Asia. The vision was outlined by Dr. Dhananjay Kelkar, who emphasised the project’s integrated approach.
Addressing the gathering, Mohan Bhagwat spoke about the spirit of collective service. Drawing from Indian tradition, he said that even the smallest contribution matters when it serves society. He highlighted how the Mangeshkar family exemplified devotion through both action and sacrifice, and urged citizens to contribute towards building a compassionate and inclusive healthcare system.
Reflecting on the emotional significance, Hridaynath Mangeshkar shared that the initiative was not merely a tribute but a commitment to continue the legacy of service embodied by his sisters, Lata Mangeshkar and Asha Bhosle.
Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis noted that despite the recent passing of Asha Bhosle, the family chose to go ahead with the programme, believing that celebration of life was the truest tribute. He also highlighted the family’s patriotic legacy and expressed confidence that the institution would carry forward the service ethos of the Deenanath Mangeshkar Hospital. He urged authorities to ensure adequate infrastructure support for the project.
Eknath Shinde suggested integrating music therapy into the institute, noting the healing power of the Mangeshkar sisters’ voices. Meanwhile, Anand Bhosle shared heartfelt memories, recalling Asha Bhosle’s emotional response to the hospital being named after both sisters, calling it a rare and meaningful honour.
The ceremony concluded on a note of unity and purpose, blending remembrance with a forward-looking vision for accessible healthcare.
Subscribe Deshwale on YouTube
