Pune, 17 April 2026: Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh chief Mohan Bhagwat on Thursday said that true 'dharma' lies in selfless service, brotherhood, and a sense of belonging, while speaking at the foundation ceremony of the Lata-Asha Mangeshkar Institute of Medical Sciences in Nandoshi.
The upcoming hospital, spread across 40 acres, will have a capacity of 1,000 beds and is envisioned as a major step toward accessible and affordable healthcare.
The event was attended by Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, members of the Mangeshkar family, and other dignitaries.
Bhagwat highlighted the importance of service without expectation. He said, “Many people continue to work selflessly without expecting anything in return. That is why goodness still exists. This itself is ‘dharma’—to serve with a sense of brotherhood and without selfish intent.”
He also paid tribute to Lata Mangeshkar and Asha Bhosle, noting that their music continues to resonate deeply with people. “The strength of the emotions expressed through their voices is extraordinary. Beginning this service initiative as planned is a fitting tribute to their memory,” he said.
Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis praised the Mangeshkar family for their long-standing commitment to service through the Deenanath Mangeshkar Hospital. “They never treated service as a transaction but as a responsibility. Affordable healthcare is a pressing need today, and this new hospital, built with a comprehensive vision, will play a significant role,” he said.
Fadnavis also assured government support for improving road connectivity to the site and addressing water supply issues. He added that efforts would be made to provide concessions to charitable institutions.
Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde reflected on the cultural legacy of Lata Mangeshkar and Asha Bhosle, saying their music has shaped generations. He suggested that the new hospital could include a dedicated floor for music therapy, highlighting the healing power of music.
During the event, Anand Bhosle shared memories of Asha Bhosle, while Dr. Dhananjay Kelkar provided details about the hospital project. The ceremony also featured a musical tribute to Asha Bhosle.
A message from Hridaynath Mangeshkar, read out due to his ill health, expressed emotional gratitude and remembrance. He reflected on the legacy of his father, Lata Mangeshkar, and Asha Bhosle, describing their contributions as invaluable and deeply personal.
In a lighter moment, Dr. Kelkar drew parallels with past visits by leaders like Atal Bihari Vajpayee and Narendra Modi, suggesting that prominent guests often return to the institution after rising to higher positions. He extended similar wishes to Fadnavis, hinting at a possible future role in Delhi.
Responding to the remark, Fadnavis said, “I have already received such blessings earlier. There is nothing left now,” downplaying any speculation about national-level ambitions.
