Padmini Kolhapure, Tejaswini Kolhapure And Talat Aziz On Paying Tribute To Begum Akhtar In Ammi Akhtari: 'We Live In An Era…' | Exclusive
For over fifty years, Begum Akhtar’s voice has resonated like an eternal melody in Indian music. Now, in Ammi Akhtari, a theatre tribute by Saif Hyder Hasan, Padmini Kolhapure, Tejaswini Kolhapure, and Talat Aziz bring her legacy to life.
For over fifty years, Begum Akhtar’s voice has floated like a haunting melody through the corridors of Indian music—a voice both delicate and powerful, laced with the bittersweet notes of a life woven into every lyric. Known as the Malika-e-Ghazal, the Queen of Ghazals, her music isn’t simply heard; it’s felt deep within, each ghazal and thumri a piece of her soul, an echo of her resilience, her grace. She was a woman who sang her heartache and triumphs alike, casting spells that still linger.
Now, her spirit rises again in Ammi Akhtari, a mesmerizing theatre production by Saif Hyder Hasan. More than a concert-play, Ammi Akhtari is an invocation—a tribute where music and storytelling fuse to trace the contours of her life. Padmini Kolhapure takes the stage as Begum Akhtar herself, her voice interwoven with Talat Aziz’s live renditions of the songs that made Akhtar unforgettable, while Tejaswini Kolhapure embodies the reverence of a disciple, witnessing and learning from her mentor’s journey. Together, they breathe life into a story of music, resilience, and memory—a tale as moving as it is timeless.
In an exclusive conversation with News18 Showsha, Padmini Kolhapure, Tejaswini Kolhapure, and Talat Aziz share insights, reflections, and memories, each revealing how bringing Begum Akhtar’s legacy to life has touched them deeply.
The Power of Collaboration: Padmini Kolhapure, Tejaswini Kolhapure, and Talat Aziz on Working Together
The collaboration between Padmini, Tejaswini, and Talat wasn’t just about putting together a theatrical performance. It was a confluence of their artistic backgrounds, their shared love for ghazal, and a mutual respect for Begum Akhtar’s legacy. As Padmini explains, the project began with Saif Hyder Hasan, who initially approached her with a concept for the play. “Saif had spoken to me because I had done a film with him called Yes Papa," Padmini recalls. Their conversation quickly turned to theater, with Saif proposing, “‘Let’s do a play together.’ He said, ‘I have this play called Begum Akhtar, and I want you to read it.’" The timing was perfect, and Padmini felt the idea had potential. However, her initial reaction to playing such an iconic figure was one of apprehension.
“I thought, ‘Oh my God, Begum Akhtar is such a big name. I don’t think I can do justice to her role,’" Padmini shared, capturing the weight of portraying such a profound figure. “The moment her name is mentioned, it’s intimidating."
This hesitation speaks volumes about the responsibility that comes with embodying an icon like Begum Akhtar. As Talat Aziz later echoes, portraying Begum Akhtar requires far more than just an ability to perform; it demands a deep understanding of her spirit, her struggles, and her unparalleled musical legacy. In the role of Sufi, Tejaswini Kolhapure offers a complementary perspective to Padmini’s Begum, adding depth and intimacy to Begum Akhtar’s journey.
Talat Aziz’s Introduction To Ghazal: Early Memories of Begum Akhtar
Talat Aziz’s connection to ghazal singing extends beyond the stage, drawing from a lifetime of immersion in its subtle, soulful essence. Recalling his initial experiences with Begum Akhtar’s music, Talat reminisces, “Back in Hyderabad, before I moved to Bombay, when I was still in school, I used to listen to this program on the radio… songs would play, whatever you wanted to hear. Vividh Bharati still exists, and they had a special program on ghazals every afternoon between two and three."
This radio program was where Talat first encountered Begum Akhtar’s ghazals, and the memory remains vivid. “It was on this program that I first heard Begum Akhtar Sahiba’s ghazals live. Khayyam Saab had composed them, and there’s an album that’s still very famous today—Aaye Tere Anjaam Pe Rona Aaya." For Talat, this was more than just an introduction to a genre; it was a portal into the emotional world of ghazal.
With each ghazal, Begum Akhtar transported listeners into realms of longing, pain, and beauty, feelings that young Talat absorbed deeply. “Listening to that program, I was drawn into this magical world of ghazal… that was my true introduction to ghazal in its purest form," Talat reflects. This early exposure to the depth of Begum Akhtar’s music not only shaped his understanding of ghazal but set him on a lifelong journey to embody and honor that legacy.
Challenges of Portraying an Icon
For Talat, portraying Begum Akhtar in “Ammi Akhtari" came with both personal and professional challenges. Ghazal is not simply about singing notes; it’s an art form that requires the artist to understand its emotional core deeply. “In ghazal singing, the first thing you have to understand is the essence, the temperament of the ghazal itself. Ghazals aren’t just sung; they are deeply felt," Talat explains. In preparing for the play, Talat aimed to channel the spirit of Begum Akhtar rather than merely imitating her style. “What I’ve tried to capture in my performance is the spirit of Begum Sahiba’s singing, the soul of her music. I’ve infused my own understanding and learning into it, but it’s her essence I’ve tried to bring forward."
Watching Padmini and Tejaswini on stage during rehearsals was a source of inspiration for Talat, who admired their dedication and skill. “They have such mastery over their pronunciation, especially in Urdu, that you wouldn’t realize they’re not native speakers," he says, emphasizing the rigorous preparation that went into each line and verse. This commitment to authenticity extended to the musical arrangements as well, which included carefully selected instruments like the sarangi, tabla, and harmonium to echo Begum Akhtar’s preferred accompaniments.
Padmini’s Family Legacy and Personal Connection to Begum Akhtar
For Padmini Kolhapure, the role of Begum Akhtar is deeply personal, connected to memories of her father, Pandit Pandharinath Kolhapure. A respected classical singer, Pandit Kolhapure was an ardent admirer of Begum Akhtar’s ghazals, a passion that left an indelible mark on Padmini. “Growing up, I would hear her ghazals whenever my father would sit and listen to music. He was a classical singer and had a special fondness for ghazals," she recalls. This early exposure to Begum Akhtar’s music instilled a sense of reverence in Padmini, guiding her throughout the preparation process.
In her portrayal of Begum Akhtar, Padmini was determined to capture the emotional depth of the legendary singer. “Her voice had an unusual quality, and her way of speaking was unique. Although I can’t become her, my goal has been to bring her soul to life through this character." For Padmini, it’s not just about replicating Begum Akhtar’s physical presence; it’s about evoking the aura that surrounded her, the blend of grace and melancholy that defined her music.
Tejaswini’s Role as Sufi: A Window into Begum Akhtar’s Personal World
Tejaswini Kolhapure’s role as Sufi offers audiences an intimate perspective on Begum Akhtar’s private life. Playing Sufi allowed Tejaswini to tap into her real-life bond with her sister Padmini, a dynamic that translated naturally to the stage. “Creating that on-stage rapport was natural for us. I must credit our director Saif for envisioning us together in this play," Tejaswini explains. The sisters’ chemistry lends authenticity to their portrayal, enriching the narrative with genuine affection and mutual respect.
In theater, Tejaswini believes that repetition and rehearsal unlock the true essence of a character. “With continuous rehearsals, certain new ideas and portrayals emerge, which can shape the characters in unique ways." This process of discovery allowed her to add subtle, authentic details to Sufi’s character, enhancing the portrayal of Begum Akhtar’s life. Saif’s encouragement to make the roles their own led Tejaswini to infuse Sufi with a sense of loyalty and understanding that captures the tenderness and support of her relationship with Begum Akhtar.
Musical Curation – Bringing Begum Akhtar’s Repertoire to Life: Selecting Ghazals, Thumris, and Dadras
The music in “Ammi Akhtari" is more than just a soundtrack; it is a character in itself, evoking the spirit of Begum Akhtar’s performances. Each piece was selected to complement the story’s progression, drawing the audience into Begum Akhtar’s world with every verse. Talat Aziz’s role as the musical voice of Begum Akhtar adds a layer of authenticity that transcends mere imitation, delivering the soul of her ghazals with reverence and depth.
Talat describes the thoughtful approach to selecting each song: “When it came to selecting the ghazals and thumris for the play, everything was chosen to align with the script, each ghazal fitting seamlessly into the story." This selection process was guided by a desire to capture the raw emotion of Begum Akhtar’s music, from the mournful thumris to the evocative dadras.
The Beauty of Live Music in Theater
One of the unique aspects of Ammi Akhtari is the use of live music within the play. Live performances, especially of ghazals, are an experience on their own, and with Talat Aziz lending his voice, the play becomes a sensory treat. Unlike recorded music, live performances bring spontaneity and an immediate emotional resonance that connects deeply with the audience. Each ghazal, thumri, and dadra is performed live, embodying the spirit of Begum Akhtar’s music while bringing her emotions and struggles to the forefront.
Talat emphasizes the difference between traditional concerts and performing live in a theatrical play: “In a concert, it’s all about the music, uninterrupted and flowing. But here, each ghazal is interwoven with dialogues and scenes. I start a ghazal, pause as the scene unfolds, and then return to it, carrying the emotional depth of the story into the music." This interplay between dialogue and music creates an intricate tapestry, enhancing the dramatic impact of the story. The careful selection of traditional instruments like the sarangi, tabla, and harmonium also honors the simplicity and authenticity that Begum Akhtar cherished, capturing her spirit without unnecessary embellishments.
Resilience In Personal Life – Begum Akhtar’s Journey Through Social Constraints: Exploring Artistic Suppression and Strength
Ammi Akhtari goes beyond Begum Akhtar’s public persona, delving into her personal battles and societal restrictions. Known for her strength and resilience, Begum Akhtar faced many challenges, especially after her marriage, which imposed boundaries on her musical career. Yet, she continued to be a beacon of strength for women in music, breaking barriers in an era when societal expectations weighed heavily on women, particularly in the performing arts.
Tejaswini reflects on how the play navigates these themes of suppression and resilience: “The script beautifully captures Begum Akhtar’s journey through these societal constraints. It’s presented in such a way that it doesn’t merely recount her struggles but brings them to life, allowing the audience to feel her resilience." Through the character of Sufi, the audience gets a glimpse into Begum Akhtar’s personal life, her vulnerabilities, and the ways in which she balanced her role as a woman, wife, and artist.
A Personal Tribute to a Timeless Icon – What Begum Akhtar Means to Each Performer: Imagining a Conversation with Begum Akhtar
If given the chance, what would each of these artists ask Begum Akhtar? This question reveals the deep personal connection each actor feels with the legend they are bringing to life. Talat answers simply, saying he would have “just touched her feet and taken her blessings." For him, Begum Akhtar represents a pinnacle of ghazal singing, someone whose blessings would be a powerful endorsement.
Tejaswini expresses her curiosity about Begum Akhtar’s creative process, saying, “I would have had a long list of questions. Maybe I would have focused on her music, as it was her passion. I imagine I would have had a hundred questions for her." This sense of awe and admiration speaks to the intense respect that each actor feels for Begum Akhtar and the remarkable legacy she left behind.
The Legacy and Relevance of Begum Akhtar’s Music Today – What Would Begum Akhtar Think of Today’s Musical World?
In today’s era of short-form content and digital entertainment, where 20-minute ghazals may seem out of place, the question of Begum Akhtar’s perspective on modern music is poignant. Talat contemplates this thoughtfully, highlighting that Begum Akhtar’s music was timeless and rooted in depth and authenticity. He notes, “Today, we live in an era of instant gratification. But her music requires patience, an appreciation for the craft, and a deep connection with the emotions it evokes."
For Talat and the team, Ammi Akhtari is not just about recreating the past but about honoring Begum Akhtar’s timeless essence. It’s a reminder of the value of authenticity, depth, and the importance of carrying forward a legacy with respect.
Final Thoughts – What the Cast Hopes the Audience Will Take Away
The goal of Ammi Akhtari is not only to entertain but also to leave a lasting impact on the audience. Each actor hopes that audiences will leave with a deeper understanding of Begum Akhtar’s life and an appreciation for the sacrifices and challenges she overcame as an artist and a woman. The cast believes that experiencing Begum Akhtar’s journey through live theater will allow the audience to feel the emotional weight of her struggles and triumphs, making her story not just a part of history but a source of inspiration.
Talat recounts a powerful moment when an elderly friend shared her excitement to attend the play, recalling a time when Begum Akhtar performed in her own home decades ago. “She said she’s coming to relive that memory. That, to me, is one of the greatest compliments," Talat shares. For the team, moments like these affirm that Ammi Akhtari is not only a performance but a bridge connecting generations to a legend who continues to inspire.
With a journey that spans cities and memories, Ammi Akhtari is set to captivate audiences nationwide, celebrating the life and legacy of Begum Akhtar in the most heartfelt way possible.
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