MUMBAI: Though she’s well over 70 years old in age, that doesn’t stop Asha Bhonsle; legendary singer and sister of India’s nightingale Lata Mangeshkar from making her acting debut at this ripe old age. We caught up with the songstress at a promotional event for ‘Mai’, the film Ashaji has acted in.

Looking regal in a light blue sari, Asha Bhonsle or Asha tai, as she is fondly called, was all smiles as she spoke on stage about ‘Mai’, the film which speaks of a woman who is abandoned by her only son, and then who goes to live with her daughter and son-in-law. ‘Mai’ is directed by Mahesh Kodiyal and also stars Padmini Kolhapure and Television’s “blue eyed boy” Ram Kapoor.

Asha Tai’s co-stars couldn’t stop heaping praise on the lady at the event. Actress Padmini Kolhapure, revealed that the legendary singer’s dedication and energy in the film moved and inspired her endlessly, during the making of ‘Mai’.

“I think Ashaji is a surprise package in the film. Looking at her energy and enthusiasm at this age, we all were surprised. We were moved and became more energetic. Her love and dedication for cinema is commendable,” Padmini Kolhapure said of her famous co-star.

Further added Padmini: “She is a great singer and actress. I am sure everyone will like her. I feel if I would not have worked in this film, then I would have lost out an important opportunity.”

Asha Bhosle will essay the role of the abandoned mother, while Padmini Kolhapure plays her daughter in ‘Mai’.

Padmini gushed even further, of how she sees Ashaji as a mother figure, “For me she is like a mother. I am happy she has lent her voice and even got to act with her. It was a great feeling to work with her. She is brilliant.”

The film is slated for a February 1 release.