Pune, April 16: Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis laid the foundation stone for the ‘Lata-Asha Mangeshkar Institute of Medical Sciences’ in Nandoshi, Pune, on Thursday.
During the event, the Chief Minister assured that the state government is fully committed to supporting charitable organizations dedicated to public service.
He emphasized that the hospital project initiated by the Lata Mangeshkar Medical Foundation will provide state-of-the-art facilities for patient care.
To ensure the project’s success, the Chief Minister announced that the municipal hospital will receive adequate road connectivity and water supply.
The state government is also considering reducing the premium fees required for building permits for charitable organizations.
Fadnavis stated, “Affordable and quality healthcare is the greatest need today. While many charitable projects lean towards commercialization, the Dinanath Mangeshkar Hospital has set a new benchmark for selfless service. I am confident that the ‘Lata-Asha project’ will continue this legacy.”
Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister paid heartfelt tribute to the late Asha Bhosle, highlighting how she transformed life’s challenges into positivity.
He noted that the Mangeshkar family has served the nation through music and philanthropy, adding that even at 90, Asha Tai’s three-hour performances were “extraordinary and divine.”
He described this hospital as a living testament to their dedication to the country.
Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde called the day extremely auspicious for Maharashtra.
Shinde remarked, “This project will save thousands of lives. I suggest incorporating ‘music therapy’ in the hospital, utilizing the divine voices of Lata didi and Asha tai as a healing medium.”
He further referred to Asha Bhosle as a “symbol of pride” for Marathi identity.
Mohan Bhagwat, the Chief of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), who was present at the event, stressed that education and healthcare should be accessible and affordable for all.
He stated that when there is a sense of belonging, service becomes natural.
Bhagwat added, “As planned here, providing all types of medical treatments under one roof significantly reduces the burden on patients. Such selfless projects are essential for a strong and harmonious society.”
Dhananjay Kelkar, a trustee of the Lata Mangeshkar Medical Foundation, provided detailed information about the project. This institute is being developed on 40 acres of land in memory of the legendary sisters, aiming to become one of the largest and most comprehensive medical facilities in the country, featuring a specialized cancer center and a rehabilitation center.
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