Lucknow: As strains of immortal ghazals and thumris floated through auditoriums across the city, Lucknow fondly remembered its most celebrated musical queen, Begum Akhtar, on her death anniversary. Two evocative evenings steeped in melody, nostalgia and reverence paid tribute to the legendary artiste, whose voice continues to resonate across generations and whose legacy remains woven into the fabric of Hindustani music.At Bhatkhande Sanskriti Vishwavidyalaya, the Begum Akhtar Peeth organised Yaad-e-Begum Akhtar at the Kalamandapam auditorium. Padma Shri awardees and acclaimed ghazal maestros Ustad Ahmad Husain and Ustad Mohammad Husain captivated the audience with evocative renditions. The recital opened with Gaiye Ganpati Jagvandan and featured compositions including Door Hai Manzil, Raahen Mushkil, Chal Mere Saath Hi Chal, Yun Hi Besabab Na Phira Karo, Mausam Aayenge-Jaayenge and Aaya Tere Dar Par Deewana.Addressing students, the duo highlighted the importance of dedication, discipline, patience and regular riyaaz in achieving musical excellence. They also encouraged young artists to learn under a guru and preserve the guru-shishya tradition.Vice-chancellor Prof Mandavi Singh described Begum Akhtar as a towering figure who gave ghazal, thumri and dadra a distinctive identity and whose contribution continues to inspire generations.The UP Sangeet Natak Akademi also marked the occasion with its annual Yaadein programme at Sant Gadge Ji Maharaj Auditorium. Performances by Ankush Nirmal, Swati Rizvi, Kultar Singh and Ustad Gulshan Bharti showcased celebrated works of Bashir Badr, Ghalib, Momin, Jigar Muradabadi and Parveen Shakir.The evening concluded with Ustad Gulshan Bharti’s renditions of Begum Akhtar’s beloved dadra Kahoon Kaise Sharam Ki Hai Baat and thumri Naina Ro Ro Haare. Akademi vice-chairperson Vibha Singh said the icon’s voice embodied a rare blend of pain and grace, while the event provided a platform for established and emerging artists alike.
