Ruma Guha Thakurta
Ruma Guha Thakurta, born on November 3, 1934, into a family steeped in the arts, is a distinguished figure in the Bengali cultural landscape. Her father, Satyen Ghosh (also known as Monty Ghosh), and her mother, Sati Devi, a trained vocalist, greatly influenced her artistic inclinations. Ruma's familial ties extended to the cinematic realm, being the niece of Bijoya Ray, sister-in-law of the renowned filmmaker Satyajit Ray.
Ruma's career blossomed in the entertainment sphere where she excelled as a dancer, actress, and singer, primarily in Bengali cinema. In 1951, she entered into a marriage with the legendary playback singer Kishore Kumar, further intertwining her life with the world of music. Following her divorce, she demonstrated remarkable resilience and independence by founding the Calcutta Youth Choir in 1958, which became a significant platform for nurturing young talent in music.
Throughout her career, Ruma Guha Thakurta has made notable contributions to the arts, embracing various roles that enriched her artistic journey. Her dedication to fostering musical talent through the choir has left an indelible mark on the cultural fabric of Kolkata. Ruma's legacy continues to inspire future generations of artists, highlighting her enduring impact on the Bengali arts scene.