Begum Akhtar

Early Life

Begum Akhtar, born Akhtari Bai Faizabadi on October 7, 1914, in India, was the daughter of Asghar Hussain, a lawyer, and his second wife, Mushtari. Following a tumultuous family situation, where her father disowned her mother and twin daughters, Begum Akhtar's early life was marked by challenges that shaped her artistic journey.

Career

Her musical journey began at the tender age of seven when she was inspired by the music of Chandra Bai, a performer in a touring theatre group. Despite her uncle's insistence on formal training, she studied under renowned musicians such as Ustad Imdad Khan and Ustad Jhande Khan. By fifteen, she had her first public performance, which garnered praise from poet Sarojini Naidu. This pivotal moment propelled her into the world of ghazals, dadras, and thumris, leading her to become one of the first female singers to perform publicly, earning her the title "Mallika-e-Ghazal" or Queen of Ghazals. Her decision to prioritize classical music over a potential film career showcased her dedication to her craft.

Legacy

Begum Akhtar's contributions to Indian classical music were recognized with numerous accolades, including the Padma Shri in 1968, the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award in 1972, and the Padma Bhushan awarded posthumously in 1975. Her legacy as a pioneering artist in the ghazal genre continues to inspire musicians and audiences alike, solidifying her status as one of the greatest singers in Hindustani classical music history.