Onika Maheshwari/New Delhi

Batool Begum is not just an extraordinary singer; she is a living legend of Indian classical and folk music. Despite facing numerous social and economic challenges, her passion for music took root in childhood and never waned.

Recognized globally for her powerful renditions of Mand—a traditional Rajasthani folk form—Batool Begum has performed in over 55 countries, including the United States, France, Italy, Tunisia, and Germany.

Born into a Muslim family in Kerap village of Nagaur district in Rajasthan, Batool belongs to the Mirasi community, traditionally associated with music. She told Awaz-the Voice that she began singing bhajans at the age of eight.

Batool Begum receiving honour at an Indian Embassy abroad

Her early interest in devotional music would one day earn her the title “Begum of Bhajans". It's also a reflection of her commitment to religious inclusiveness through art.

Batool went to a school. She was married at 16.

Despite her responsibilities as a married woman, she never gave up on her passion. Her love for music endured even after she left formal education after the fifth standard.

Batool’s rise from a village girl to an internationally recognized folk artist is a story of resilience and perseverance.

Batool Begum in Paris

Her work has been widely acclaimed, and in 2022, she received the Nari Shakti Puraskar, in addition to being honoured by the governments of France and Tunisia.

Batool’s performances captivate audiences everywhere. Her command over Mand, bhajans, and other traditional forms brings alive India’s musical heritage. “Singing Mand is not easy,” she explains. “There are many challenges involved. Those who have learned this art understand its depth. I have learned by listening to others. I love singing so much that even if I miss a meal, I still make time for my practice.”

Her voice and dedication have helped transcend religious and cultural boundaries, establishing a powerful message of harmony and humanity. According to Batool, “Mand folk music belongs to Rajasthan. Great singers like Allah Jilai Bai made it timeless. The compositions from the royal courts of Rajasthan offer deep insight into our rich musical traditions.”

Batool Begum being conferred the Padma Shri by the President

Her husband, Feroz Khan, worked as a conductor in the Rajasthan State Roadways. The couple had three sons. Despite domestic responsibilities, Batool nurtured her musical talent and learned to play traditional instruments like the dhol, dholak, and tabla, expanding her musical expression.

Batool's rise from a small-time singer at the community gatherings to global stages reflects her unwavering dedication. She has been part of the international fusion folk music band Bollywood Klezmer, a collective of musicians from diverse cultural and religious backgrounds. Through this platform, she has helped create a space for musical collaboration and cultural unity.

Her work continues to promote the idea that music is a universal language—one that builds bridges rather than walls. Recognised by the governments of France and Tunisia, Batool Begum’s performances have become a voice for tolerance and unity. She uses her platform to advocate for girls’ education and women’s empowerment, believing in music as a medium for social change.

Batool Begum in an Indian Embassy

In 2021, Batool Begum was awarded the Nari Shakti Award by then-President Ram Nath Kovind. Many international institutions have also honoured her. Through her band and her solo performances, she has carried the message of peace and pluralism to countries like America, Britain, France, Tunisia, Switzerland, and Germany.

What truly sets Batool apart is her ability to sing Hindu devotional songs despite being a Muslim. “We don’t see a difference between communities,” she says. “ In art and music, all gods and goddesses are equal and worthy of respect.”

Her beliefs echo the Ganga-Jamuni tehzeeb—a shared cultural ethos of Hindu-Muslim unity. Batool sees music as a sacred thread that binds humanity across religious and cultural lines. “ Only through art and music can we nurture communal harmony,” she says. “This is my message: unity in diversity.”

Batool Begum at a concert

Today, Batool Begum is not only a celebrated artist but also a champion of progressive values. For over five decades, she has promoted communal and social harmony through her singing. Her journey proves that music knows no boundaries of religion or caste.

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She has become a symbol of tolerance and unity, and she now trains young artists to carry her legacy forward. In her words, “Music is worship, riyaaz is sadhana, and sur is the voice of the soul.”