The Ladies Study Group organised a light-hearted chat session with singers Babul Supriyo and Alka Yagnik at ITC Sonar for a lively evening full of friendly banter and nostalgic anecdotes, along with some iconic tunes. The event started with throwback stories of the singers knowing each other since 1992, their mutual love and admiration for each other, and how Calcutta has always been their homeland. When asked about Rabindrasangeet and its influence on Bengali artistes, Alka said: “It is not just about the blood, but the land as well. I am not a Bengali by birth but by heart, hence, it has always influenced me. In school, I have always participated in Tagore’s plays like Tasher Ghor and from early on it has had an impact in my life.”
Both the artistes then indulged in the song Mone robe kina robe aamare from their duet album of the same name. When Supriyo was asked about his career shift, he summed it up with a one-liner: “Hit se janhit mein agaya hun. Some singers sing to get hit song and as a musician turned politician now, I sing for the welfare of the people,” referring to his trajectory from music to politics. He further talked about how he manages his time. “I only do what I love, and when you do that, 24 hours in a day is enough to achieve your goal. I am a multi-tasker and believe in working from simple means.” The conversation between the two artistes reflected their companionship and it was also peppered with friendly banter. Later they made the evening melodious with songs like Chori chori chupke chupke, Rahe na rahe hum, and the fan favourite Hum tum.
Alka also talked about her relationship with her mentor Lata Mangeshkar. “I was fortunate to share a connection with her; someone like her can never die. She was divinity embodied, a master who had a very keen sense of humour. I still kept the half-used Cartier perfume bottle she gave me when I asked her what perfume she used. I will always cherish it.” The inciteful chat ended with the singers humming the song Ek din aap yun, making the audience sway.
Babul Supriyo and Alka Yagnik chatted with the audience
Madhu Neotia, who is in the governing body of the committee, was also in attendance. She said: “LSG believes in education in all subjects and areas, and music is an essential part of our lives. Having artistes like Alka and Babul who have had such magnificent careers, who shared their experiences and anecdotes, was a wonderful affair. This session was an extremely joyful event for all of us.”
Sucheta Merh, president LSG, said: “Post-Covid, I have tried to keep the members’ interest alive with new ways of presenting events. Alka Yagnik and Babul Supriyo have great chemistry and respect for each other. They happily agreed to the format, and I am grateful for this. Things like this keep the enthusiasm of the members going.”
Bhawna Agarwal, vice president of LSG, said: “Our two most versatile singers, Babul Supriyo and Alka Yagnik, have filled our lives with melodies for decades. On behalf of LSG, I am pleased to extend our heartfelt thanks to them for this beautiful evening. Thank you for sharing some of your stories, experiences and tunes with us today.”
