Ruchira interviewed Kakali Das, an exponent of Rabindra Sangeet – exclusively for Different Truths.
Kolkata-based well-known vocalist Kakali Das prefers to maintain a low profile and avoid publicity. An alumnus of the prestigious Rabindra Bharati University Kolkata, Kakali (her name means chirping of birds) also lends her voice to the music composed by other renowned Bengali poets. Her low-pitched but soft melodious voice endears her to her listeners. Over the past few years, this bashful, soft-spoken lady has had an aura of motherly grace and is enjoying her moments of glory. Her only son doctor-singer Utsab Das is garnering popularity. A peek into her life.
How was your childhood? Was there music at home? Were you quiet or energetic?
As a child, I was moderate, neither extrovert, hyperactive, nor shy. There was a musical ambience at home. Both my parents were music lovers and singers though not in a professional way. Those days few homes boasted of a harmonium. I was fortunate because my family possessed one. Right since my school days, I would practice singing to the accompaniment of the harmonium.
Ruchira: When did you decide that the focus in your life would be music?
Kakali: You see, there was music all around me. It was part of my home life and my growing-up years. Therefore, the choice of music for both academics and career came to me spontaneously.
Ruchira: Please trace your musical career graph for us.
Kakali: I completed my schooling at Tarasundari Balika Vidya Bhawan, Howrah. Later, I pursued my graduate and postgraduate studies in vocal music at Rabindra Bharati University Kolkata, obtaining a 1st class in both. It was indeed my privilege to learn music under the tutelage of Maya Sen, a leading exponent of Rabindra Sangeet who steadfastly upheld the traditional Shantiniketan singing style during a stint with noted singer Subhash Choudhuri as my mentor. I am a diehard fan of the legendary George da (Debabrata Biswas). There was a time when I would play his gramophone records repeatedly if I happened to be at home. Later, I turned a great admirer of Swagatalakshmi Dasgupta, a present-day Rabindra Sangeet stalwart.
Ruchira: We would like to know more about your public performances and shows. Also, awards and accolades?
Kakali: I have performed on diverse Bengali television channels like Tara Bangla and CTVN AKD Plus, among many others. I participated in a live show, Chorcha@Chilekotha, hosted by Cozmik Harmony. It is a leading music company that has also produced several albums of mine. I also participated in a show, Hridya Rabindranath, broadcast on Deshe Bideshe TV, a flagship of the Bengali diaspora in Canada. I also attend and perform at various Sangeet mela (fairs) as and when they are held. Through all these years during my schooldays and even beyond (especially in Howrah), I used to participate /compete in various musical contests that came up locally and nearby. I won many prizes and scholarships in those activities and events.
Ruchira: Which genre of music is your forte?
Kakali: Well, (laughs) as a matter, all categories of vocal music–Rajanikanta, Atul Prasad, Dwijendrageeti, devotional music dedicated to the Holy Trio of Ramakrishna Mission et al., – though the mainstay of my repertoire happens to be Tagore’s songs.
Ruchira: How do you view the future of vocal music in India?
Kakali: Vocal music has a very bright future in India. Only some things are good. This new generation is churning out new and diverse kinds of music. Many people are taking up music as a profession. However, many people are learning Rabindra sangeet and Hindustani classical music with seriousness and dedication. So (laughs) both types of music, new and old, will coexist and flourish well.
Ruchira: Your message to the budding singers?
Kakali: Everyone should be disciplined, goal-oriented and stay focused. It would be best if you planned properly. Don’t expect overnight success. Whether in academics or music, practice is essential. Only then can you achieve success.
Photo sourced by the interviewer
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