Mumbai: Gauhar Jaan, born in 1873, was a pioneering figure in Indian music, and her life is being celebrated in the theatrical production ‘My Name is Jaan’. Known as India’s first recorded singer, Gauhar Jaan’s influence on Indian classical music remains unparalleled. The play captures her extraordinary journey from her modest beginnings in Azamgarh to becoming a legendary figure in Kolkata’s vibrant cultural scene.
‘My Name is Jaan’ portrays her rise through sheer musical brilliance. Trained by classical maestros, Gauhar Jaan became a master of various styles such as khayal, thumri, and dhrupad. Her 1902 recording with the Gramophone Company of India marked a groundbreaking moment in Indian music history, cementing her legacy as the first Indian woman to be recorded. At the height of her fame, Gauhar commanded a fee of Rs 3,000 per song, an astounding sum at a time when gold was valued at just Rs 20 per tola.
The play also dives into the opulence that surrounded her career, as Gauhar was a celebrity often invited to perform at royal courts and durbars. But it doesn’t shy away from the hardships she faced, such as failed marriages and financial struggles in her later years. Despite her personal challenges, Gauhar Jaan left an indelible mark on the music world and continues to inspire generations.
My Name is Jaan: Show Details
‘My Name is Jaan’ will be performed on 25 October 2024 at 7:30 PM and 27 October 2024 at 6:30 PM at the Bal Gandharva Rang Mandir in Bandra West, Mumbai. Tickets are available on BookMyShow, and early booking is advised to ensure you don’t miss this tribute to Gauhar Jaan, a woman who was truly ahead of her time.
