Mumbai: ‘My Name is Jaan’, a one-woman musical play, is set to captivate Mumbai audiences with the extraordinary life story of Gauhar Jaan, the first Indian artist to record a song in 1902. This captivating play explores her life, filled with triumphs and trials, and presents a narrative that intertwines live performances of 11 of her most iconic songs. Well-known actress, Arpita Chatterjee, brings Gauhar’s journey to life, narrating her rise to fame in Indian classical music, from humble beginnings to becoming a national sensation.
Arpita Chatterjee is a truly versatile performer, excelling as an actress, classical dancer, and classically trained singer. Her artistic prowess spans multiple disciplines, making her a standout figure in Indian performing arts. She has honed her classical singing skills under the tutelage of renowned maestros like Ustad Rashid Khan and Pandit Arun Bhaduri.
Born in 1873, Gauhar Jaan mastered classical forms like khayal, thumri, and dhrupad, becoming a sought-after singer in royal courts. The play beautifully captures these moments of her life, providing a vivid portrayal of her rise to stardom. Her multilingual talent is showcased through songs in Hindi, Bengali, and English, highlighting her unmatched versatility.
The performance is more than just a tribute—it delves into Gauhar’s personal struggles, from her failed relationships to the financial hardships she faced toward the end of her life. Despite these challenges, she remained an iconic figure, forever immortalised as the first Indian singer to record her voice on a gramophone.
Lead actress Arpita Chatterjee breathes life into this powerful narrative, combining soulful music, vibrant storytelling, and a celebration of Indian classical heritage. Audiences can expect to be taken on a deeply emotional journey, celebrating Gauhar Jaan’s rise to stardom and her enduring legacy.
‘My Name is Jaan’ will be staged at the Bal Gandharva Rang Mandir, Bandra West, Mumbai, on 25 October 2024 (7:30 PM) and 27 October 2024 (6:30 PM). Tickets are available for purchase at in.bookmyshow.comso be sure to book in advance to experience this poignant homage to one of India’s greatest musical legends.
