When Lata Mangeshkar, widely regarded as the most significant and impactful singer in contemporary Indian history, passed away a few years ago, numerous tributes were published in her honor. Various news outlets featured articles highlighting lesser-known aspects of her life. Among these was a story detailing her passion for cricket and how she was granted complimentary tickets for every match played by the Indian team within the country. However, this narrative failed to provide the context behind this arrangement. The individual responsible for facilitating this was Raj Singh Dungarpur, a former cricketer, administrator, and often described as Lata's sole 'romantic partner.'

Who was Raj Singh Dungarpur?  

Raj Singh was born in the former princely state of Dungarpur in Rajputana and was the youngest son of Maharawal Lakshman Singhji, the ruler of Dungarpur. As a Rajkumar, he developed a keen interest in cricket, participating in the Ranji Trophy and Duleep Trophy for Rajasthan and Central Zone, respectively, from 1955 to 1971. Following his retirement from playing, he transitioned into administration, overseeing the national team during various tours and later serving two terms as the President of the BCCI in the 1990s.

Raj Singh Dungarpur and Lata Mangeshkar's relationship

Raj Singh and Lata first crossed paths in the 1960s, facilitated by her brother, Hridaynath Mangeshkar, who was acquainted with the cricketer at that time. It was reported that their affection for one another developed swiftly. Although Raj Singh was not the direct heir to the Dungarpur throne, he was nonetheless the son of the king and the brother of the future monarch. Consequently, his family opposed the union. Similarly, Lata's family preferred a Marathi suitor for her. Contemporary gossip magazines chronicled Raj Singh's struggles against his family's disapproval, ultimately leading to his acquiescence. Despite these challenges, the two maintained a close bond throughout their lives, remaining unmarried.

In a 2004 interview, Raj Singh reflected on their decision not to marry. "This is a very personal matter. However, we came from different backgrounds, and the 1960s were a different era. Perhaps both of us were deeply connected to our families. It was simply one of those situations that did not materialize. Nevertheless, this has neither diminished nor enhanced our relationship. She remains a source of my admiration and affection, and I continue to stay in contact with her," he stated.

Lata, conversely, chose to remain discreet regarding her relationship with Raj Singh in public forums. She described him as a close friend and confidant. When a publication referred to the cricket administrator as her "one true love," Lata was prompted to provide a comment. In an interview with Hindustan Times, she succinctly stated, “There are some things only for the heart to know. Let me keep it that way.”

Their later lives

In their later years, Raj Singh Dungarpur held the positions of selector and manager for the Indian cricket team from 1988 to 2006, with his final role being that of manager during a tour to Pakistan. He passed away in 2009 in Mumbai at the age of 73. Lata Mangeshkar continued her singing career well into her 80s and 90s, ultimately passing away in 2022 at the age of 92.

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