Calcutta's Forgotten Maestro: Music Amidst Wartime Chaos

In the tumultuous 1940s of Calcutta, Kumar Chunder Sen, known as KC, navigated the challenges of wartime, including Japanese air raids, to manage musicians and record music. His wartime recording for the East India War Fund exemplified his instinct for creating and managing art amidst adversity.

Sen, a descendant of notable figures, balanced diverse talents, excelling as a musician, athlete, and war correspondent. His experiences on the Burmese front reinforced his dedication to music, leading to the creation of original compositions that were released as records.

After World War Two, Sen returned to Kolkata, heading programming at All India Radio and forming jazz ensembles. He also established the Calcutta Swing Club and orchestrated large-scale concerts, significantly influencing the city's jazz and music scene.

His most impactful venture was Band Wagon, launched in 1953. This talent agency and glossy weekly magazine evolved to professionalize Park Street's nightlife, creating opportunities for local performers through regular auditions and showcases. Band Wagon became a vital launchpad for a generation of musicians.

Sen's influence extended to filmmaking, notably introducing Satyajit Ray to cabaret performer Vicky Redwood. He concluded his career with a poignant radio broadcast in 1975 before retiring to the UK, where he passed away in 2007. His sons continued his musical legacy.