Lucknow: The Bhatkhande Sanskriti University, Lucknow, inaugurated a two-day cultural festival in memory of the legendary singer and “Mallika-e-Ghazal” Begum Akhtar on the occasion of her 111th birth anniversary. The event commenced at the university’s Kalamandapam Auditorium, celebrating the timeless contribution of Begum Akhtar to Indian classical music and ghazal tradition.
The inauguration ceremony was graced by the University’s Vice-Chancellor Prof. Mandavi Singh, renowned vocalist Vidushi Sangeeta Nerurkar, Pt. Dharmanath Mishra, and the heads of various departments. The dignitaries jointly lit the ceremonial lamp and paid floral tributes to Begum Akhtar’s statue, marking the formal beginning of the commemorative festival.
The highlight of the first day was a soulful performance by Vidushi Sangeeta Nerurkar from Pune, who began her recital with Begum Akhtar’s immortal ghazal “Yeh dekhna hai sukoon ab kahan se milta hai.” What made her presentation unique was her narrative style—interweaving stories of Begum Akhtar’s life journey with the evolution of her music. Nerurkar, who has conducted extensive research on Begum Akhtar’s artistry, moved the audience with her emotive and scholarly rendering.
She was accompanied by Pt. Dharmanath Mishra and Mohit Dubey on the harmonium and tabla respectively, while Vinayak Sahay provided a melodious backdrop on the sarangi.
Born in Faizabad, Uttar Pradesh, Begum Akhtar remains one of India’s most celebrated singers in Hindustani classical music. Revered for her soulful and expressive voice, she mastered ghazal, thumri, and dadra styles. Among her timeless classics are “Ae Mohabbat Teri Dastaan,” “Kuchh To Duniya Ki Inayat Ne,” and “Hamri Atariya Pe.” For her outstanding contribution to Indian music, she was honored with several prestigious awards, including the Padma Shri, Padma Bhushan, and the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award.
Speaking on the occasion, Vice-Chancellor Prof. Mandavi Singh said, “It is a matter of immense pride that Begum Akhtar was once associated with Bhatkhande Sanskriti University. This event is a heartfelt tribute to her unmatched legacy that continues to inspire generations.”
University Registrar Dr. Srishti Dhawan added, “This cultural program offers an extraordinary opportunity for music lovers and students to connect with the enduring charm of Begum Akhtar’s music.”
The festival continues with more performances and discussions dedicated to preserving and celebrating the life and works of the Ghazal Queen, Begum Akhtar.
