Publisher Details:
Lotus Collection
Roli Books
Roli Books Pvt. Ltd.
M-75, GK II market,
New Delhi 110 048
E-mail : roli@vsnl.com
In this book of reminiscences and records, Vidushi Savita Devi lovingly and painstakingly traces the journey of her mothers' life- the legendary Hindustani classical singer Smt. Siddheshwari Devi. It describes in detail, Siddheshwari's rise from an uncared for orphan in her aunt's house in Banaras to a famous classical singer and recipient of a Padmashree award. The book traces the birth and evolution of a glorious singer, the long years of riaz under her gurus, her performances that reveal nuances of thumri gayaki, hitherto unknown, and her many sorrows and successes in her personal and professional life. It also touches upon the rich and varied styles of music of the Banaras Gharana which she perfected and her interactions with other artists who gave shape and colour to Indian Classical Music. In this only exhaustive and definitive biography available of this great vocalist, the author shows us closely the angst, hardships, joys and sensibilities that are the core of a true artiste.