Begum Akhtar - A Lifestory
Queen Of Ghazal, Immortal Voice, Soul Of Hindustani Classical
Begum Akhtar, a name synonymous with the soulstirring genre of Ghazal and Hindustani classical music, was an iconic Indian singer and actress. Born in Faizabad, Uttar Pradesh, around 1914, she initially received training in classical music from Ustad Imdad Khan, followed by further tutelage from renowned musicians like Ata Mohammed Khan and Abdul Waheed Khan. Akhtar's early performances were primarily centered on Dadra, Thumri, and Ghazal, quickly establishing her distinctive style marked by deep emotion and an unparalleled ability to convey the nuances of Urdu poetry. Her renditions possessed a unique blend of pathos and sophistication, captivating audiences with her evocative voice and masterful command over musical expression.
Beyond her musical prowess, Begum Akhtar also ventured into acting, appearing in several films during the 1930s and 40s. However, her true calling remained music, and she eventually dedicated herself entirely to singing. Her career experienced a temporary setback when she was forbidden from singing by All India Radio for a period, but she returned with renewed vigor after her marriage in 1945. Following her marriage, she was initially known as Akhtaribai Faizabadi, but she later became widely recognized as Begum Akhtar.
In the later years of her life, she continued to perform extensively, both in India and abroad, earning numerous accolades and cementing her legacy as one of the greatest vocalists of the 20th century. Begum Akhtar received prestigious awards like the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award and the Padma Shri, acknowledging her immense contribution to Indian music. She passed away in 1974, leaving behind a rich repertoire of recordings that continue to inspire and move listeners. Her influence on subsequent generations of Ghazal singers is undeniable, and she remains a revered figure in the world of Hindustani classical music.
