The “Nazrul Geeti” diva, whose massive contribution in popularising this musical genre is notable to say the least. This year on the birth anniversary of the National Poet, she is taken ill and at present, admitted in Apollo Hospital in serious condition.
It can be a safe assumption that if the singer was in a fit state, she would have graced the celebration with her enthusiastic performances. This year’s “Nazrul Mela” oragnised by Channel i dedicated their daylong festival to Feroza Begum and is praying wholeheartedly for her wellbeing.
Legendary singer Feroza Begum, whose name is as popular as Nazrul Sangeet itself, believes that the recognition that Nazrul’s songs deserve, is absent in the current music scenario. She had the rare opportunity to learn music from Nazrul himself in Kolkata, at a very young age.
As a “Nazrul Geeti” singer, Feroza Begum has many rare achievements. She was equally popular in India and Pakistan between 1950s and 1960s. She was the first singer to release an LP on Nazrul Sangeet in Pakistan and was one of the two singers to render songs during the inauguration of Pakistan radio's regional office in Dhaka, in early 1969.
For her bountiful dedication to Nazrul Sangeet and Adhunik Gaan, Feroza Begum has been recently awarded the “Maha Sangeet Samman” award by Paschimbanga government, at the Bangla Sangeet Mela celebrating the rich musical variety in the state and Bangladesh. Moreover Feroza Begum is credited with awards like “Shahdhinata Puroshkar.” She has been awarded the “D Lit” title from Bardhaman University of India, as recognition of her special contribution in the musical arena.
