Ahead of our next Midday Mantra: Summer Serenade, we sat down with headlining female vocalist Koyel Bhattacharya. We heard all about her inspirations, work, music and family, and what audiences can expect on Saturday 19th July.
When did you first start singing? What are your first musical memories?
I started singing at the age of 4. My mother, Smt. Kanta Bhattacharya is my first guru. I can remember that she always used to practice at 4 am, and thereafter she woke me up to do my morning riyaz at 5 am. The sound of my mother’s lovely voice singing every morning was the perfect way to start my day, filling me with joy and enthusiasm. My father., Shri Amiya Kumar Bhattacharya gave me the name Koyel. He always had a dream that I would sing Indian Classical music in future and he always used to play recordings of many legendary artists of that time.
Who inspires you in your work?
My guruji, Padma Bhushan Ustad Rashid Khan ji, is my constant inspiration. His dedication, discipline and contribution to Indian Classical Music serve as a perpetual source of inspiration for me.
What are you proudest of?
In 2007, I got a National Scholarship from the Ministry of Culture, Govt of India and in 2017 I got National Fellowship from Ministry of Culture, Govt. of India. That was a very special and one of those proudest achievements for me, as well as for my family and my guru. Also having the chance to learn from to learn from my guruji Padma Bhushan Ustad Rashid Khan ji.
Do you have a favourite style to work with?
As a vocalist in the Hindustani tradition, I follow our gharana named “Rampur Sahaswan Gharana”. The Rampur-Sahaswan gayaki (style of singing) is closely related to the Gwaliour Gharana, which features medium-slow tempos, a full-throated voice and intricate rhythmic play. The gharana style is also known for the diversity and intricacy of the Taan’s, as well as Tarana singing.
You’ve been in England now for a couple of weeks – how have your last few weeks in the UK been? What have been your highlights?
I always enjoy my staying in England. As I am touring with my husband Kuntal Das, who is a Tabla player and a disciple of Pandit. Subhankar Banerjee ji., the last few weeks are very much into some Baithaks and workshops which we both have enjoyed a lot.
We will be here in the UK until September and we are going to perform in Manchester, Birmingham (with Sampad), in London, Liverpool and many more cities.
What can Birmingham audiences expect from your concert at Sampad’s Midday Mantra?
Sampad is a very prestigious platform in South Asian Arts in the UK. It’s an honour and privilege to be a part of this event. On 19th July I am going to perform Khayal, Thumri, Ghazals, old Bengali and Hindi classics. We will strive to deliver a performance that thoroughly entertains the audience and provides a delightful experience.
See Koyel Bhattacharya live in concert alongside Tabla player Kuntal Das on Saturday 19th July 2025. Tickets available here.