Priya Dutt on “Yaadon Ki Geetmala”: A Musical Evening Filled With Memories, Music and Meaning

Priya Dutt recently opened up about the thought and emotion behind “Yaadon Ki Geetmala — Down Memory Lane”, a special musical evening dedicated to the timeless legacy of her parents, legendary actors Sunil Dutt and Nargis Dutt. Describing the event as deeply nostalgic, Priya shared that the concept is rooted in memories associated with her parents’ unforgettable songs. She explained that the title itself, Yaadon Ki Geetmala, reflects a “garland of memories,” bringing together music and moments that defined an era of Indian cinema.

According to Priya, the evening was designed to be more than just a musical performance. Featuring a live orchestra and live singers, the event allowed audiences to not only listen to classic songs but also hear the stories and emotions behind them. She noted that the performers spoke about the memories connected to each song, making the experience richer for those who love Hindi film music and are equally curious about the life journeys of the artists behind these iconic melodies.

Sharing her personal favourites, Priya fondly recalled songs she grew up listening to, including the evergreen “Mere Saamne Wali Khidki Mein” from Padosan and “Mera Saaya Saath Hoga.” Speaking about her mother’s memorable numbers, she mentioned classics from Shree 420 and the playful “Ichak Dana Bichak Dana,” which held a special place in her childhood. She added that many compositions by Naushad ji continue to be recreated, proving their timeless appeal.

Priya also addressed how several of her mother’s iconic songs have been reimagined over the years in modern cinema. She highlighted “Pyaar Hua, Ikraar Hua” as one such timeless melody, calling it truly iconic and noting that its popularity extends far beyond India, resonating strongly with international audiences as well. For Priya, these recreations are a testament to the enduring magic of classic Bollywood music.

Held at the Nehru Centre Auditorium in Worli, Mumbai, the musical evening carried a deeper purpose as well. Priya shared that the net proceeds from Yaadon Ki Geetmala are dedicated to the Nargis Dutt Foundation, supporting charitable projects for underprivileged cancer patients. Blending music, memories, and compassion, Priya Dutt’s vision for the event stood as a heartfelt tribute to her parents and their lasting impact on Indian cinema.