A Unique Confluence of Music and Cinema Marks Begum Akhtar’s 52nd Death Anniversary; Dr. Soma Ghosh Brings the Ghazal Queen’s Journey to Life Through Music, Accompanied by a Film Produced by Prof. Shubhankar Ghosh
New Delhi, A memorable musical evening unfolded in the national capital to commemorate the 52nd death anniversary of Padma Bhushan Begum Akhtar, the legendary Queen of Ghazals, whose velvety voice and deeply emotional renditions left an everlasting imprint on Indian music.
At a special tribute programme titled ‘Shaam-e-Akhtari’, held at the Samvet Auditorium of the Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA), Padma Shri Dr. Soma Ghosh paid a heartfelt musical tribute to the iconic singer, leaving the audience spellbound and deeply moved.
The highlight of the evening was its innovative fusion of music and cinema. A specially produced film by Dr. Soma Ghosh, founder of Madhu Murchhana, and Prof. Shubhankar Ghosh explored the lesser-known aspects of Begum Akhtar’s life, her struggles, musical journey, and the evolution of her singing style.
As the story of Begum Akhtar unfolded on screen, Dr. Soma Ghosh brought its emotions alive through her soulful live renditions, creating a seamless blend of cinematic storytelling and musical expression.
This extraordinary combination of film and live performance transported the audience into Begum Akhtar’s world, making them feel as though the legendary singer was once again present among them. Dr. Ghosh sensitively portrayed the various phases of Begum Akhtar’s life and the corresponding transformations in her musical expression, earning immense appreciation from music lovers.
Our Endeavour Is to Connect the Younger Generation with Legendary Musical Icons: Dr. Soma Ghosh
Speaking on the occasion, Padma Shri Dr. Soma Ghosh said, “Today’s younger generation is gradually drifting away from the great legends of Indian classical music and their invaluable legacy. It has always been my endeavour to introduce young audiences to the lives and music of extraordinary personalities such as Ustad Bismillah Khan and Begum Akhtar through innovative and engaging presentations.”
Sharing an emotional moment from her performance, she added, “While singing today, there was a moment when I genuinely felt as though Begum Akhtar herself was standing right in front of me. Rather than merely performing her songs, I tried to weave her music into the story of her life. I sincerely hope this effort has touched everyone’s heart.”
Distinguished Personalities Grace the Occasion
The special evening was graced by several eminent personalities from the fields of art, literature, journalism and culture.
Among the distinguished guests were Padma Vibhushan Dr. Sonal Mansingh, renowned classical dancer and former Rajya Sabha Member of Parliament; senior journalist and author Hemant Sharma; and Arvind Kumar, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Culture.
The programme was organised under the leadership of Prof. Dr. Richa Kamboj, Head of the Kala Darshan Department at IGNCA, with the support of the department.
Talented Artists Add Musical Brilliance to the Evening
Dr. Soma Ghosh was accompanied by an ensemble of accomplished musicians whose performances added richness and depth to the musical tribute.
The accompanying artists included Nawazish Jabbar Hussain Khan on tabla, Parmita Mukherjee on harmonium, Umesh Kumar Sahu on keyboard, Kashif Nizami on sarangi, and Pankaj Banai on side rhythm.
The evening was further enhanced by graceful dance performances by Ms. Aastha Gupta and Aanchal Sharma, while Vishal Pandey conducted the proceedings as the programme’s anchor.
At the conclusion of the event, music enthusiasts applauded Dr. Soma Ghosh and her entire team for their innovative presentation and heartfelt tribute to the legendary singer.
‘Shaam-e-Akhtari’ once again reaffirmed that while great artists may leave this world, their voices, artistic brilliance and timeless legacy continue to resonate in people’s hearts for generations to come.