Medium : Digital | 24 hours of work
The 19th century was a tumultuous era marked by societal norms that predominantly favoured the male perspective. In such a patriarchal society, the women courtesans, known as bais, devdasis, and tawaifs, faced a harrowing existence. They grappled with societal stigmas and lacked recognition. For years, they remained labelled as women of ill-repute. Even when marked by pain and challenges, their lives stand as a testament of remarkable strength. These courtesans became female pioneers in the Indian music industry and inspired generations of women who followed in their footsteps.
The legacy of the courtesans, though born out of adversity, has contributed to a cultural shift enabling contemporary female musicians to shape their destinies, express their individuality, and contribute to the rich tapestry of Indian music with unparalleled freedom and creativity.
The collage format visual pays homage to the legacy of the courtesans in the Indian music industry. It showcases figures like ‘Gauhar Jaan’, the first voice recorded on the gramophone, ‘Zohra Bai Agrewali’, who recorded extensively on 78 rpm discs. It acknowledges the contributions of ‘Janki Bai Allahabadi’, (also known as Chhapanchuri), and ‘Jaddan Bai’ who transitioned from a courtesan to a musician and actress. She is also the mother of the renowned Indian film star Nargis. The artwork also recognizes ‘Begum Akhtari's’ sacrifice of a comfortable married life for her love of music. Together, these representations honour the enduring impact these women have had on evolutionary path of Indian music.
The legacy of the courtesans, though born out of adversity, has contributed to a cultural shift enabling contemporary female musicians to shape their destinies, express their individuality, and contribute to the rich tapestry of Indian music with unparalleled freedom and creativity.
The collage format visual pays homage to the legacy of the courtesans in the Indian music industry. It showcases figures like ‘Gauhar Jaan’, the first voice recorded on the gramophone, ‘Zohra Bai Agrewali’, who recorded extensively on 78 rpm discs. It acknowledges the contributions of ‘Janki Bai Allahabadi’, (also known as Chhapanchuri), and ‘Jaddan Bai’ who transitioned from a courtesan to a musician and actress. She is also the mother of the renowned Indian film star Nargis. The artwork also recognizes ‘Begum Akhtari's’ sacrifice of a comfortable married life for her love of music. Together, these representations honour the enduring impact these women have had on evolutionary path of Indian music.
