Mumbai, May 4: The film music industry has seen many artists whose melodies continue to resonate in the hearts of fans, even after their passing. One such legendary composer is Naushad Ali, whose life story is a testament to struggle, dedication, and remarkable success. His father once imposed a significant condition, asking him to choose between music and family. Additionally, during his wedding, his father-in-law condemned his music as “ruining the new generation.”
May 5 marks the death anniversary of Naushad. Born on December 25, 1919, in Lucknow, he grew up during a time when the country was actively opposing the Rowlatt Act. His father, Wahid Ali, worked as a clerk in the courts, and the family did not view music favorably. As a child, Naushad was enchanted by the qawwalis at the Dewa Sharif shrine, spending hours there. He received classical music training from masters like Ghurbat Ali, Yusuf Ali, and Babban Sahib in Lucknow.
Naushad began his career by working with a team that composed music for silent films at the Royal Theatre, where he received his formal education in music direction. He also worked on improving the harmonium and later toured Punjab, Rajasthan, and Gujarat with the Indian Star Theatre Company, learning various folk music styles.
When Naushad decided to pursue music as a career, his father made it clear: “Choose between music and family.” Driven by rebellion, Naushad left Lucknow for Mumbai in 1937. He faced significant struggles in the early days, staying with acquaintances and eventually sleeping on the pavement outside the Broadway Theatre in Dadar. In Mumbai, he learned the intricacies of music from Ustad Jhandey Khan and began working as a pianist in the New Theatre orchestra.
In 1940, he made his debut as an independent composer with the film “Prem Nagar.” Lyricist D.N. Madhok recognized his talent. The films “Nayi Duniya” and “Sharda” in 1942 brought him recognition, with 13-year-old Suraiya singing his compositions in “Sharda.” The film “Ratan” changed Naushad’s fortune, increasing his salary from 75 rupees to 25,000 rupees.
Another interesting anecdote from Naushad’s life is that, despite his success in Mumbai, he had not yet informed his family about his career in film music. During his wedding, his song “Aankhiyan Mila Ke Jiya Bharma Ke Chale Nahi…” played on the loudspeaker. His father-in-law, upon hearing it, expressed his disapproval, claiming such songs were ruining the new generation. Naushad remained silent and did not reveal that it was his own song.
Naushad beautifully blended classical, folk, and Western music into film music, elevating the careers of singers like Mohammed Rafi, Lata Mangeshkar, and Suraiya.
My name is Ganpat Singh Choughan. I am an experienced content writer with 7 years of expertise in the field. Currently, I contribute to Daily Kiran, creating engaging and informative content across a variety of categories including technology, health, travel, education, and automobiles. My goal is to deliver accurate, insightful, and captivating information through my words to help readers stay informed and empowered.
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