1 'Pyaar Kiya To Darna Kya' (Mughal-e-Azam, 1960)
As far as legendary films go, it did not get bigger than this. K Asif's magnum opus had Lata Mangeshkar deliver some fabulous tracks as the voice of the besotted Anarkali. This rebellious declaration of love continues to be iconic for its visual presentation, and the magical voice that shouldered it.
2 'Ajeeb Dastaan Hai Yeh' (Dil Apna Aur Preet Parai, 1960)
Lata Mangeshkar was singing beautiful break-up songs long before Taylor Swift was even born. This beautiful melody, composed by Shankar-Jaikishan, sung on a moonlit night, is the perfect ode to soothe heartbroken souls.
3 'Allah Tero Naam' (Hum Dono, 1961)
When Noorjehan, the erstwhile queen of playback singing, came back to India for a break, Lata Mangeshkar chose this wonderful bhajan composed by Ravi for her welcome. Such was her skill, devotion and dedication that the Mallika-e-Tarannum was left applauding the new queen, Lata Mangeshkar.
4 'Aapki Nazron Ne Samjha' (Anpadh, 1962)
Another beautiful melody, this time from the baton of Madan Mohan, was a tribute to Lata Mangeshkar's serene style. Over a minimalist composition, Lata's voice reigns supreme.
5 'Dekho Rootha Na Karo' (Tere Ghar Ke Saamne, 1963)
Dev Anand and Nutan starred in this brilliant mischievous film about love. Bright, happy and playful, this composition by SD Burman had the Melody Queen at the peak of her skills. Her ability to modulate voice to emulate the right amount of fake anger and playfulness makes this a brillant addition to the list.
6 'Naina Barse' (Woh Kaun Thi?, 1964)
Lata Mangeshkar's haunting vocals combined with the haunting beauty of Sadhana to make this one of the most beautiful spooky songs ever composed. Madan Mohan's soul rending composition with minimal orchestra makes up for the rest.
7 'Aaj Phir Jeene Ki Tamanna Hai' (Guide, 1965)
Dev Anand's tribute to the magical RK Narayan tale was littered with some spectacular music. The pick of the album is this liberating song, pictured on the dancing, joyous Waheeda Rehman. If Vijay Anand's camerawork does not captivate you, the voice certainly will.
8 'Aa Jaane Jaan' (Intaqam, 1969)
Anyone who dismisses Lata Mangeshkar's ability to sing sensuous songs is incredibly misinformed. The songstress was reputed to be a fun and mischievous personality, which shows up in the rare dance numbers she did. This one, pictured on the fabulous Helen, is a perfect example of her versatility.
9 'Baiyan Na Dharo' (Dastak, 1970)
Writer Rajinder Singh Bedi's first film was erected upon the foundation of classical music. No other voice could have suited the character of a cultured, classical singer who finds herself mired in a patriarchal society than Lata Mangeshkar.
10 Inhi logon ne (Pakeezah, 1968)
When Pran won the Filmfare for Best Supporting Actor in 1969, he rejected the award since Pakeezah's music went unrecognised. It was a statement that is given credence by this brilliant rebuke of a song composed by Ghulam Mohammed, Naushad would complete it after his death, and sung by Lata Mangeshkar.