The Kolkata Literary Festival opened its doors on Friday morning at the historic Alipore Museum, setting the stage for a celebration of stories and art. The inaugural session was graced by iconic figures from music and cinema, creating a bridge between the literary world and performing arts.
Legends Reflect on Art and Life
The event saw the presence of veteran singer Usha Uthup and acclaimed actress Madhabi Mukherjee. They were joined by festival director Anjum Katyal, programming head Neeta Sreedharan, and Jayanta Sengupta, the director of Alipore Museum. The session transformed into a heartfelt adda, where the artistes shared personal anecdotes and profound thoughts on their crafts.
Usha Uthup emphasized the inseparable bond between literature and music. She stated that every song she performs is a story meant to connect with the audience on an emotional level. "My aim is to bring a smile," she said, explaining her choice of lyrics that touch hearts deeply. For her, books narrate tales through chapters, while music does so through verses and melody.
Madhabi Mukherjee's Cinematic Journey
Madhabi Mukherjee took the audience on a nostalgic journey, paying tribute to her mentors. She shared vivid memories of working with the legendary filmmaker Ritwik Ghatak. She described him as a complete artist—a master of acting, direction, and music—who created timeless classics under challenging conditions.
"His sets were disciplined and affectionate but firm," Mukherjee recalled, noting Ghatak's dedication to the craft. She also revealed a lesser-known fact: Ritwik Ghatak was a fine actor himself, deeply involved in theatre and immensely knowledgeable about music. She fondly remembered his love for chess and his competitive spirit.
Homage to Pioneers and Personal Lessons
The actress also spoke with great admiration for Kanan Devi, whom she praised not just for her stellar career but for her golden heart. Mukherjee highlighted Devi's role as the first president of Mahila Shilpi Mahal, where she supported senior female artistes during a less progressive era.
Reflecting on her own beginnings, Madhabi revealed she started acting at the age of four. A pivotal learning moment came from veteran actor Chhabi Biswas. When she once forgot her lines on stage, his method of guidance turned her mistake into a lasting lesson, shaping her professional journey.
The Enduring Power of Books and Music
Usha Uthup made a passionate case for literature festivals in the digital age. She believes they play a crucial role in reviving reading habits, pulling people away from screens. "The aroma of new books transports me to another world," she confessed, expressing a desire to read more real-life stories despite a hectic schedule.
She reiterated that singing is an exchange of emotions and personal experiences, requiring deep interaction between the performer and the listener—a sentiment that echoes the very purpose of a literary gathering.
The inaugural session concluded on a high note with a spirited medley of the songs 'Shaan' and 'Ramba Ho', perfectly encapsulating the festival's spirit of joy and cultural fusion. The Kolkata Literary Festival has thus begun, promising a rich exploration of words, music, and memories.
