Short Summary
Naina Devi was a distinguished Indian classical singer known for her expertise in thumri, a form of semi-classical Indian music. Her contributions to the promotion and preservation of traditional Indian music have been lauded both nationally and internationally. She played a pivotal role in bringing thumri to the mainstream and was instrumental in the revival of this art form. Her career and influence left an indelible mark on the world of Indian classical music.
Early Life & Education
Naina Devi was born as Nilina Sen in 1917 into an aristocratic family in Kolkata, India. Her family was culturally rich, which provided her with an early exposure to the arts. As a child, she showed a keen interest in music and was encouraged by her family to explore this passion. She received her initial training in classical music from Ustad Bhaiyya Ganpatrao. Despite the social constraints of her time, her education in music continued to flourish, which later laid the foundation for her illustrious career.
Career Highlights
Naina Devi's career was marked by her transition from a promising student of music to a renowned performer and educator. She became a celebrated exponent of thumri, bringing a unique blend of emotion and technical prowess to her performances. Her dedication to the craft led her to work as the Director of the National Centre for the Performing Arts in Mumbai. She was also involved in various music festivals and played a critical role in mentoring young musicians, ensuring the continuity of the thumri tradition for future generations.
Major Achievements
- Received the Padma Shri award for her contributions to Indian classical music.
- Played a key role in the revival and popularization of thumri in India.
- Served as the Director of the National Centre for the Performing Arts in Mumbai.
- Mentored numerous young musicians, contributing to the preservation of traditional music forms.
Famous Quotes
- "Music is the language of the heart, and thumri is its eloquent expression."
- "The soul of music lies in its ability to evoke deep emotions."
Interesting Facts
- She was born into the royal family of the princely state of Kapurthala.
- Despite societal norms, she pursued a career in music after marriage.
- Naina Devi was instrumental in organizing the first all-India thumri festival.
- Her dedication to music was so profound that she continued to perform even during challenging personal times.
Legacy / Influence
Naina Devi's impact on Indian classical music, particularly in the realm of thumri, continues to resonate today. Her efforts in reviving and popularizing this art form have ensured its survival and growth. She is remembered not only as a performer but also as a mentor who nurtured a new generation of musicians. Her work has inspired countless artists to explore and innovate within traditional Indian music.
FAQ
Q: Why is Naina Devi famous?
A: She is renowned for her contributions to Indian classical music, particularly for popularizing thumri.
Q: What award did she receive for her contributions?
A: She was awarded the Padma Shri, one of India's highest civilian honors.
Q: Did she hold any significant positions in the music world?
A: Yes, she served as the Director of the National Centre for the Performing Arts in Mumbai.
