Today, enjoying music is effortless. With just a tap, you can listen to your favorite tunes anytime, anywhere. But before the digital revolution—and even before cassettes and CDs—there was a groundbreaking invention that transported listeners into a mesmerizing world of ragas and talas: the gramophone.
The first Indian voice ever recorded on this iconic device was none other than Gauhar Jaan—a name that revolutionized India’s musical landscape. Her boldness and talent paved the way for generations of artists. Here’s a closer look at the remarkable singer who changed the course of Indian music.
Even 95 years after her passing, the mesmerizing voice of this legendary artist continues to echo in the hearts of music lovers. At a time when gold was priced at just 20 rupees per tola, she commanded an astonishing fee of 3,000 rupees per performance—an amount unheard of in her era. Wherever she went, she was showered with gold and silver, a testament to her extraordinary stardom.
Who Is Gauhar Jaan?
Eileen Angelina Yeoward was born on June 26, 1873 in Uttar Pradesh’s Azamgarh. Her grandmother was Hindu, grandfather and father were British Christians. Her parents separated when she was just six. Her mother Victoria Hemmings, moved to Banaras (now known as Varanasi) with one of her Muslim well-wishers Khurshid. Angelina and her mother converted to Islam and adopted the names Malka Jaan and Gauhar Jaan.
Furthermore, In the culturally rich and artistic hub of Banaras, Gauhar Jaan’s natural talent for music, dance, and poetry flourished. The city played a key role in shaping her into the legendary artist. Shewas trained under various maestros in both music and dance, honing her craft from a young age.
They Moved To Culcutta
After Nawab Wajid Ali Shah was exiled to Matia Burj in Calcutta, the city became a cultural hub, attracting artists from across North India. Among them was Badi Malka Jaan, who moved to Calcutta with her daughter, Gauhar. She found a place in the Nawab’s court as a musician and, with the patronage of Calcutta’s elite, rose to prominence as one of the city’s most celebrated courtesans.
600 Records Made In 15 Languages, Her Fame
In her musical journey, she made 600 records in 15 languages. Gauhar Jaan’s reputation soared to such heights that she was invited to perform at the grand Delhi Durbar of 1911, where she sang before British Emperor George V and received a prestigious award in recognition of her talent. She shared the stage with Jankibai of Allahabad, further cementing her status as a musical legend. Following this performance, princely states across India eagerly competed to host her, captivated by her extraordinary artistry.
