Jibaner Jalsaghare

Author: Manna Dey
Genre: Atmajibani - Jibani - Smritikatha
Format: Hardcover
ISBN: 9788177564419
Pages: 370
Weight: 690 grams

Book Description:

Jibaner Jalsaghare is the deeply personal and insightful memoir of Manna Dey, one of India's most iconic and beloved singers. The book takes readers on a journey from his childhood days in Simla Para, North Kolkata, where he was a mischievous young boy to his profound and transformative connection with music that ultimately shaped his destiny. The memoir beautifully traces his evolution from a local wrestler in his youth to a National Artist who embraced music with absolute devotion.

Manna Dey’s musical journey is portrayed through the guidance and blessings of his uncle Krishna Chandra Dey, a legendary artist, as well as his associations with renowned musical figures. The book paints a vivid picture of the deep dedication and discipline he displayed for over sixty years in his music career, a career that earned him a place among India’s greatest artists.

The memoir is not just a tale of his musical career but also offers a rare glimpse into his personal life. Manna Dey opens the doors to his inner world, revealing his values of punctuality, discipline, generosity, and humility, which defined his character. It offers intimate portrayals of his affectionate nature, his love for his family, and the emotional nuances that shaped his artistry.

This is more than just a biography of a legendary singer; Jibaner Jalsaghare is a rich mosaic of the musical world, capturing the beauty and the soul of a man who spent his life creating music that touched millions of hearts across the globe.

About the Author:

Manna Dey was born on May 1, 1919. He was educated at Scottish Church College and Vidyasagar College in Kolkata. In 1937, he began his music training under the guidance of his uncle Krishna Chandra Dey. His stage debut came the same year at a college function.

His music journey further flourished when he received classical music training under Ustad Dabir Khan Sahib starting in 1939 and then from Ustad Aman Ali Khan Sahib. In 1942, he traveled to Mumbai with Krishna Chandra Dey and made his playback debut in Tamanna (1950) with the song "Jago Aai Usha". His association with Sachin Dev Burman and his rendition of "Upar Gagan Vishal" in the movie Mashaal (1950) marked the beginning of his fame.

His first Bengali playback was in the movie Grihapravesh (1954), where he sang "Ke Prothom Kache Eshechi" for Uttam Kumar. Manna Dey was awarded numerous accolades, including multiple National Awards for Best Playback Singer, the Lata Mangeshkar Award, the Shyamal Mitra Award, and the Padma Shri among others. In 2004, he was honored with the title of National Singer.

He was married to Sulochana and had two daughters, Surma and Sumita.