Gaya Renames Building After Film Pioneer Jaddan Bai

Gaya is preparing to honor Jaddan Bai, a significant figure in Indian cinema and classical music, by naming a new auditorium and academic building after her. The structure is being erected at Daulat Bagh, an area historically connected to Jaddan Bai, who resided there for several years. This initiative reconnects Gaya with its rich cultural past.

The original Daulat Bagh building, once belonging to a local zamindar and patron of arts, was allocated to Jaddan Bai. Despite moving to Kolkata and then Mumbai to pursue her career, she maintained connections to Gaya. Her daughter, the famous actress Nargis, and Nargis's husband, Sunil Dutt, also kept ties to the area.

Recent concerns about the old building's structural integrity, described as dilapidated and dangerous, led to its demolition. The District Institute of Education and Training (DIET) principal confirmed the demolition was a safety measure, citing past incidents. The new facility will serve as an auditorium and academic building, recognizing Jaddan Bai's legacy.

The decision to name the new building after Jaddan Bai highlights her contributions to both classical music as a thumri exponent and early Indian cinema as a pioneer. The legacy of her family, including Nargis and Sunil Dutt, is also tied to Gaya.