Varanasi, March 18: The narrow lanes of Kashi, known as the city of Shiva, have resonated with the fragrance of music for centuries. Born on August 8, 1908, Siddheshwari Devi emerged from this vibrant city, breathing new life into Thumri and elevating classical music to new heights. Affectionately called ‘Maa,’ she was honored with the title of ‘Thumri Queen’ by the renowned singer Kesarbai Kerkar.
Siddheshwari Devi hailed from a family of musicians in Kabir Chaura, Varanasi. An interesting anecdote surrounds her name; she was originally called ‘Golu,’ a name that displeased the local astrologer Mahadev Prasad, who then renamed her Siddheshwari Devi. She received her musical education from esteemed gurus like Pandit Siya Ji Mishra, Bade Ramdas Ji, Ustad Rajab Ali Khan, and Inayat Khan, who helped refine her remarkable talent.
This singer from the Banaras gharana brought to life various forms of music, including Khayal, Dhrupad, Thumri, Dadra, Tappa, Kajri, Chaiti, Hori, and Bhajan. The emotions of love, devotion to Krishna, romance, and separation were expressed so deeply in her Thumri that audiences were left spellbound. Her singing embodied the hallmark of the Banaras gharana, characterized by poise, emotion, and intricate lyrical composition.
In an interview, Siddheshwari Devi once remarked, “Music is my worship. When I sing, it feels like Ganga Maiya and Krishna Murari are right in front of me.”
Kesarbai Kerkar, a luminary in the Indian classical music scene associated with the Jaipur-Atrauli gharana, bestowed the title of ‘Surshri’ upon Siddheshwari Devi. Kerkar was honored with the Padma Bhushan in 1969 and recognized Siddheshwari’s contributions to music.
The lanes of Varanasi, the ghats of the Ganges, and the vibrant celebrations of Holi inspired her Kajri and Hori. Once, while singing “Saanjh Bhai Ghar Aao Nandalala,” a listener approached the stage, expressing concern for her son. Siddheshwari smiled and replied, “You have made my singing meaningful; go meet your child.”
Her Banarasi demeanor was equally captivating. While performing at the royal court of Orchha, she once paused her performance to admonish whispering audience members, declaring, “If you cannot appreciate music, then leave!”
Siddheshwari Devi was honored with the Padma Shri and the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award. Her daughter, Savita Devi, authored a book titled ‘Maa… Siddheshwari,’ chronicling the social neglect faced by Thumri singers and Siddheshwari’s spiritual dedication. Through the ‘Siddheshwari Devi Academy of Indian Music,’ Savita has continued to promote her mother’s legacy.
Siddheshwari Devi passed away on March 18, 1977.
My name is Bhupendra Singh Chundawat. I am an experienced content writer with several 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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