Lucknow Honors the Everlasting Legacy of Begum Akhtar with Ashwini Bhide’s Performance

Lucknow hosted several events to honor the lasting legacy of the legendary Mallika-e-Ghazal, Begum Akhtar. Commemorating her anniversary on October 30, 1974, renowned Hindustani classical vocalist Ashwini Bhide Deshpande delivered a heartfelt performance at her Mazar located in Pasand Bagh, Old City.

Expressing her admiration, Ashwini remarked, “As a fan of Begum Akhtar’s ghazals, dadras, and thumris, it’s a privilege to perform at her resting place. Each song is a timeless masterpiece, and it feels profoundly special to honor her here.”

The captivating performance featured ghazals, dadra, and thumri. Deshpande commenced with a Hazri in Raag Kedar, moving on to the ghazal Chha Rahi Kali Ghata, the thumri Ab Ke Sawan Ghar Aa Ja, and the dadra Ho Gayi Beriya Piya. She was accompanied by Megha Shyamlal Bhatt, Pandit Vinod Lele on the tabla, and Pandit Dharam Nath Mishra on the harmonium, enchanting a large audience of music enthusiasts.

Madhvi Kuckreja, the organizer, noted, “The musical Hazri has become a yearly tradition at her Mazar. This year, we’ve incorporated an exhibition at our Lucknow Bioscope museum in Sanatkada Ka Adda titled Life and Legacy of Begum Akhtar, featuring her music LP records, personal items, and more.”

Additionally, Bhatkhande Sanskriti Vishwavidyalaya organized a two-day musical evening at the Kalamandapam auditorium. On the first day, Pune-based singer Sangeeta Nerurkar dazzled the audience, followed by Kolkata’s Rageshwari Das on the concluding day. Notable songs, including Humri Atariay Pe and Aye Mohabaat…, were performed.

The Vice-Chancellor of the university, Prof. Mandvi Singh, stated, “It fills us with honor to acknowledge Begum Akhtar’s connection with the Bhatkhande Music Institute. This event serves as a fitting tribute to her immortal legacy.”