New Delhi: Celebrated Bengali actress and entrepreneur Arpita Chatterjee delivered a powerful solo performance in My Name Is Jaan, which was staged in Mumbai on 25 October 2024. Bollywood veteran actor Anupam Kher, who started his acting career as a theatre artist, was full of praise for Arpita Chatterjee’s performance in My Name Is Jaan. Chatterjee brought the legacy of Gauhar Jaan alive through her performance. For Kher, the experience was nostalgic, as he had started his career as a teacher at Mumbai’s Bal Gandharva Rang Mandir. Reflecting on his journey, he shared an anecdote with the audience, saying, “It was October 1981 when I began my first job as a teacher here. That day, I walked to the theatre, and today, due to traffic, I found myself doing the same. Theatre aana hai toh paidal aana padta hai. [If you have to visit a theatre, you must walk].”
Directed by Abanti Chakraborty, My Name Is Jaan brings to life the story of Gauhar Jaan, the pioneering artist who became the first Indian to record on gramophone in 1902. Directed by Chakraborty, the play transports audiences through Gauhar’s vibrant life and career, detailing her achievements and struggles as an iconic figure in India’s musical history. Gauhar recorded over 600 records across 20 languages and reshaped perceptions of women in music during British rule.
Anupam Kher hails Arpita Chatterjee’s powerful performance
Anupam Kher, visibly moved by Arpita’s performance, expressed his admiration for her talent. “The production was impeccable,” he said, applauding its design, presentation, lighting, and music. He singled out Arpita’s portrayal, saying, “You were remarkable, Arpita. What range of emotions, what grace, what a voice! It’s been a long time since I’ve seen a performance of such calibre. I know the pressure of having someone familiar sitting in the front row; I felt the tension for you, but you shone through it.”
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The play’s engaging narrative and Arpita’s portrayal of Gauhar Jaan, who popularised light classical music, were unforgettable. Her mastery in delivering Gauhar’s highs and lows had a mesmerising effect on the audience. In particular, Arpita’s seamless transitions in vocal expression resonated deeply with Kher, who later shared, “I was meant to be in Dehradun today, but I’m glad I stayed. I learnt so much from watching you.”
With her renditions of thumris, dadras, and tarana, Gauhar Jaan carved her own space in the music world, challenging social norms. Arpita’s portrayal brought this legendary artist’s legacy to life, leaving both Kher and the audience with a profound sense of admiration.
