Swagata Mukherjee, the famous film, television, and theatre actress performs as Gahaur Jaan. 

The play revolves around the life of the legendary artiste. Gauhar Jaan was one of the most renowned and charismatic performing artiste of Calcutta at the turn of 20th century. It seems strange that today she is largely unknown, but at the time, she was one of the most famous vocalists in India. She was as famous for her larger-than lifestyle, as she was for her artistic abilities. One would not be out of line to say that she was Indias first recording superstar. She is known for her contributions to both dancing as well as singing. She was one of the last, noble traditions of female entertainers. She was intelligent enough to alter her professional tactics in order to thrive in the new environment. Gauhar Jaan gave her maiden performance at the royal courts of Darbhanga Raj in 1887 and was appointed as a court musician, after receiving extensive dance and music training from a professional dancer at Benaras. Gauhar Jaan started performing in Calcutta in 1896 and was known as the first dancing girl.

 

SWAGATA MUKHERJEE