Courting the Courtesans: Timeless ghazals, thumris, and popular melodies with Abhilasha Ojha

Through a musical journey, Abhilasha Ojha takes the audiences through the lives of the courtesans, the unsung but important heroines in Indian history. This also goes in sync with the recent release of Umrao Jaan film along with Guru Dutt films, some of which tell the tales of courtesans, that are shown in halls after restoration. The artist gives well researched information on each of the musical gems telling the story of the courtesans in India, focusing on ghazals, thumris, and dadras presented through an interesting style that blends Indian and western instruments. The show in in line with Depot 48’s vision to not only entertain its audiences but also impart interesting information for them to take back — going beyond merely performance.