‘Remembering Razia Baig’: Hyderabadis pay tribute to Dev Anand and Baig families

Hyderabad: The second session of the Remembering Razia Baig series, conceived by Padmasri Mohammad Ali Baig, received an overwhelming response in Hyderabad. Held at Radisson Blu Plaza, Banjara Hills, the event featured actress-director Sohaila Kapur, who presented an audio-visual session on Bollywood legends Dev Anand, Chetan Anand and Vijay Anand.

The series is dedicated to the memory of theatre matriarch Begum Razia Baig and is organised by the Qadir Ali Baig Theatre Foundation. The first session last month featured singer-actress Ila Arun’s book release and reading.

An audience of eminent personalities

The packed Movida Hall saw the presence of art connoisseurs, politicians, defence officials, bureaucrats, and members of Hyderabad’s erstwhile royal family. The series has gained popularity, drawing full houses and recognition for its celebration of cultural legacies.

Mohammad Ali Baig addressed the audience, paying tribute to his mother. “Begum Razia’s services to theatre for five decades shaped the city’s culture-scape,” he said.

Sohaila Kapur’s reflections

Sohaila Kapur shared her memories of Begum Razia Baig, recalling her grace and hospitality. “She had such a dignified personality. I still remember how gracefully she would host dinners after our shows at the Qadir Ali Baig Theatre Festival and the Foundation’s Celebrating Series,” she said.

The evening was marked by a sense of nostalgia, celebrating the artistic legacies of both the Anand and Baig families.