The earliest recordings of Indian music are characterised by the high-pitched announcement, ‘My name is Gauhar Jaan.’ This declaration epitomised a milestone in the history of Indian classical music, one that would forever change its content, structure and style.
Born Eileen Angelina Yeoward, an Armenian Christian who later converted to Islam, Gauhar Jaan was a naturally gifted musician with an outstanding repertoire. One of the earliest women artists to seize the opportunities that rose with the advent of recording technologies, hers was the first Indian voice to ever be recorded in 1902. She went on to cut close to 600 records, the most successful female musician of her time.
This book traces her story, a story peppered with the stuff myth and legend, as well as the times during which she lived. It also describes the evolution of the Indian recording industry and its impact on the country’s music, theatre and social life.
This book is not just a biography; it’s a celebration of the human spirit, the pursuit of passion, and the resilience to overcome adversities. As we gather for our book club discussion, we’ll explore themes of art, identity, gender, and the tumultuous yet vibrant historical context in which Gauhar Jaan and other tawaifs thrived.
Whether you are a music aficionado, a history enthusiast, or simply someone who appreciates a well-crafted narrative, “My name is Gauhar Jaan” by Vikram Sampath has something profound to offer. This book will inspire, educate, and undoubtedly spark lively discussions among us.
Don’t miss the opportunity to share your thoughts, insights, and emotions as we collectively immerse ourselves in the life of this trailblazing artist. Come join us for a memorable book club meeting that will leave you enriched and enlightened.
Hi everyone, please tell us your topic, you can pick one from here if you like –
1. Why are we so fascinated by tawaifs? And do we romanticise their lives?
2. How did tawaifs influence Indian music and the changing music landscape in late 19th/ early 20th century India?
3. How are tawaifs portrayed in Hindi movies?
4. What role did Calcutta play in the historical transformation of tawaifs?
5. What kind of person was Gauhar Jaan? How did her personality influence her stardom?
6. Was the post-independence Indian state responsible for the disappearance of tawaifs?
7. How can we define the difference between tawaifs and prostitution?
8. Were tawaifs the custodians of Urdu poetry?
9. How was the architecture of the jolsaghors and kothas in the Rajbaris and the palaces of Kolkata?
10. What kind of background had tawaifs, what brought them into this profession?
A fun event!
She was beautiful, supremely talented, intelligent, witty. She spoke 7 languages. She was transparent and honest. She was ready to learn, be it music. A superstar in those days. Much like Shah Rukh
Betrayed by many she died a pauper. Everyone who came for the meeting shared something valuable. A takeaway from the book. Their views on the tawaifs and classical music and dance
We all learnt something new. Smriti Kunz put together a lovely presentation on socio economic realities and issues.
The morality police, The freedom struggle, Patronage, Music, Kothas and chaudhrayins, Difference between tawaif and baiji
Let’s make heritage cool