Born in 1960

Mughal-E-Azam swept the nation, and Lata Mangeshkar's voice felt like it was coming from another, more beautiful world. The film's grandeur matched India's ambitions for itself. Bombay was now undisputably India's cultural capital — films, fashion, and finance all emanating from its crowded, chaotic streets.

In the south, Carnatic music traditions were flourishing, and every town had its sabha where concerts were eagerly attended. India's diversity was its constant, magnificent backdrop.