Kolkata, October 2 (Daily Kiran) : Amitabh Bachchan, the iconic host of the quiz reality show “Kaun Banega Crorepati-18,” recently shared fond memories of Kolkata’s renowned Park Street during an episode. He reflected on the street’s vibrant restaurant scene and its significance in the city’s nightlife.
While conversing with contestant Shourjya Das, Bachchan remarked, “Back then, our nighttime entertainment revolved around Park Street. The street was lined with restaurants, creating a truly remarkable atmosphere. I’ve never seen anything like it anywhere in the world, where five or six top-notch restaurants coexist on one street.”
The megastar also paid tribute to the talented musicians who performed at Park Street’s famous establishments, mentioning artists like Usha Uthup and Louis Banks. He noted, “Many exceptional singers used to perform in those restaurants. We felt overshadowed by their talent, and several of them made significant contributions to Hindi cinema.”
Usha Uthup, in particular, has a deep connection with Park Street. She began her professional singing career in a local restaurant after moving to Kolkata in 1969 and became one of the most recognizable voices in the city’s live music scene. Uthup made waves by performing in traditional Indian sarees, blending western and jazz music at a time when such a fusion was groundbreaking.
Her talent caught the attention of legendary actors like Dev Anand and Shashi Kapoor during a performance in a Delhi hotel. Anand offered her opportunities to sing in films like “Hare Rama Hare Krishna” (1971) and Merchant Ivory’s “Bombay Talkies,” paving the way for her success in Indian pop and playback singing.
Bachchan’s heartfelt reminiscence on KBC not only highlights the cultural richness of Kolkata but also pays homage to the artists who have shaped its musical landscape.
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