DIBRUGARH: A 83-year-old renowned classical singer from Dibrugarh, Mala Dey, who has trained many singers, is now struggling to get government aids. Mala Dey is a resident of Bansbari area of Dibrugarh. She chose the career in classical singing after lots of struggle. She was born in Guwahati and after her marriage, she shifted to Guwahati in 1945. Now, she has been suffering from heart-related ailment.
Speaking to The Sentinel, Mala Dey said, “I’ve learned classical music from Prahlad Das. He taught me classical music. I have been trained from Gwalior gharana. Earlier, I have faced many struggles to learned classical singing but due to my strong determination, I have pursued it.”
“Due to health issues, I left singing but I want to continue. I urge every upcoming singer to learn classical music. If they have the base of classical music in them, it will be easy for them to sing any song,” Dey said.
She said, “From a young age, I have started singing. But after my marriage, I have learned classical music under my guru Prahlad Das. I have faced many obstacles but still I pursued the career. Many students have learned classical music from me and many of them now have become music teachers in school, colleges.”
Mala Dey is now suffering from heart ailment and needs government aids and recognition. “She didn’t get any recognition in Dibrugarh after giving her precious time in classical music. Now, Assam government has been giving Silpi pension to the artiste. Mala Dey should get recognition and Silpi pension because she has contributed a lot to the society,” a senior citizen said.
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