Hyderabad: QABTF kicks off `Remembering Razia Baig’ series to inspire next generation of female artists

Hyderabad: Qadir Ali Baig Theatre Foundation (QABTF) has launched an inspiring new initiative to celebrate women in performing arts.

'Remembering Razia Baig’ aims to showcase the works of women in theatre, dance, literature, fashion, music, and other creative fields.

The initiative is also aimed to celebrate the legacy of its Founder-Chairperson, Begum Razia Baig.

The series will serve as a platform to inspire the next generation of female artists.

A Visionary Step for Women in the Arts

Dr. J. Geetha Reddy, former Minister for Tourism and Culture, inaugurated the series with a heartfelt address that highlighted the importance of empowering women in the performing arts. She praised the foundation for its efforts and reflected on Begum Razia Baig’s transformative contributions.

“Begum Razia Baig set an example for the conservative Hyderabadi society by breaking barriers with her smile and grace. This initiative by Mohammad Ali Baig, in his mother’s memory, is visionary and necessary for amplifying women’s voices in art and culture,” said Dr. Geetha Reddy.

A Vibrant Start to the Series

The inaugural session at Taj Deccan featured the launch of the autobiography ‘Parde Ke Peechchey’ by renowned folk singer, actress, and writer Ila Arun, co-authored by Anjula Bedi. The event drew a packed audience, including arts connoisseurs, eminent politicians, civil service officials, and members of Hyderabad’s erstwhile royal families.

Actor-writer Noor Baig set the tone for the evening with excerpts from the autobiography. Ila Arun entertained the audience with humorous anecdotes and spoke about her debut film with late filmmaker Shyam Benegal. She also reminisced about her connection to Hyderabad. Anjula Bedi shared poignant excerpts from the book, leaving many in the audience emotional, especially during the chapter about Ila Arun’s mother.

Tribute to Begum Razia Baig’s Legacy

Mohammad Ali Baig, Founder-Director of the Qadir Ali Baig Theatre Foundation, emphasized the significance of the series.

“This evening is special not just as a tribute to my mother but as a first step towards amplifying women’s voices in performing arts,” he said.

The ‘Remembering Razia Baig’ series is set to continue with sessions featuring accomplished women across various fields, making it a unique platform for recognizing and celebrating their contributions.

A Platform for Change

The initiative, with its focus on empowering women through art, aligns with the Qadir Ali Baig Theatre Foundation’s commitment to using theatre as a medium for social and cultural transformation.

Dr. Geetha Reddy commended the Foundation and its Founder-Director for their dedication to this cause, describing the series as a visionary tribute that bridges past legacies and future aspirations.

The launch of ‘Remembering Razia Baig’ has set the stage for meaningful dialogue and celebration of women’s contributions to the performing arts, carrying forward the legacy of Begum Razia Baig.