Asha Bhosle almost caught Raj Thackeray by surprised when she proclaimed, "Mumbai belongs to all Indians." The veteran singers was sharing the stage with Maharashtra Navnirman Sena chief during an event, Swar-Asha, in Pune, organised by channel, Mi Marathi.

It all began when Raj, in his speech, said: "Asha Bhosale has sung many songs in different languages. People in different parts of India accept these songs as their own. This happened only because she is Marathi."

Asha responded to a question by interviewer and compere Sudhir Gadgil who asked her whether Mumbai was turning ugly with exodus from outside. Among the audience was MNS president Raj Thackeray.

"People are bound to flock to Mumbai as Hindustan belongs to all. Those who work hard here become prosperous. I also worked in my field with determination to earn success. I have sung in all Indian languages but I am a proud Maharashtrian, " she said.

Raj Thackeray and his MNS spokesperson, Shrish Parkar did not respond to her comment.