Back in 2006, a statement made in Surat by the ever-controversial Himesh Reshammiya incensed singing diva Asha Bhosle beyond repair, provoking her to express violent thoughts about him. Apparently, the offensive remark had Himesh accusing RD Burman of singing nasally. Bhosle, not one to take such remarks lying down, responded, "If anyone says Burman sa'ab sang through his nose, he should be slapped." After making such provoking statements, Himesh seemed baffled by the turn of events. "I don't know what has hit me. It was never my intention to insult Panchamda (RD). How can I, when I've grown up learning music compositions by Laxmikant-Pyarelal and RD? During an event I was asked about my 36 hits in two years, and how I tackled charges of singing through my nose. To this I responded by saying Mukesh sa'ab, R D Burman sa'ab and Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan sa'ab were never accused of singing nasally. I only wanted to prove a point. Now I realise I made a mistake. I should've never brought in the names of these great musicians in my argument. Chote mooh badi baat, I guess,” he said.
About Asha's response to Himesh's statement, he had just one thing to say. "I respect and admire Lataji and Ashaji. To me they're the pillars of the music industry. My upbringing and sanskar don't permit me to offend people who are far more distinguished and senior than me."
by Rohan Valecha