Thumri

Tawaifs and tehzeeb: Notes from a symposium on courtesans' contributions to art, freedom struggle

Though pop culture and notions of Victorian morality led many to think of them as the 'other woman' or women of 'low character' who broke up marriages and enticed men, the story of the tawaifs is far different – and much more complex. They were artists of high calibre, who were expected to be trained in classical music and dance (Kathak); notably, they contributed immensely to the musical genres of the bandish and thumri. Though they were strictly non-combatants, they played a significant role in the struggle against the British by hiding weapons and rebels.

Monsoon Music: Uttar Pradesh and Bihar's Kajri — an ode to dark clouds

The most popular forms of the Kajri can be found in the Bhojpuri language, but it is also sung in Awadhi and Maithili. The prominent motifs in this genre are Radha-Krishna, looming clouds and peacocks

How Girija Devi's Thumri made me the protagonist of a tale that wasn't mine

Girija Devi's singing reminded me that to feel is a privilege, and to express is a precious liberty

Girija Devi passes away: Remembering the life and legacy of 'the queen of thumri'

Eminent classical singer and Padma Vibhushan awardee Girija Devi passed away in Kolkata on Tuesday night following a cardiac arrest. She was 88.

'Girija Devi's demise an irreparable loss to Banaras Gharana': India mourns the loss of Thumri Queen

The demise of noted vocalist Girija Devi has created a deep void in Indian classical music, her associates and admirers said on Wednesday