Mubarak Begum, a legend of yesteryears was living in dire straits when her ardent fan Siraj Khan connected with her for the first time in 2007. He was moved by her plight and decided to help. His email appeal caught the attention of the film world in India and her life has taken a new course since.

“I am able to tell you Mubarak Begum's sad story of survival and struggle only because, after valiant efforts of many years, I recently managed to track her down. However, my delight in getting through to her was short-lived because, as our conversation progressed and more was divulged, my heart sank on learning of her present circumstances” says Khan.  He decided to take action and immediately composed an email and circulated it on the internet to make people aware of her plight and also to spearhead a fundraising effort to help her.

“Do you recall these songs of the yesteryears, when it wasn't quite the Bollywood it is of today
 
•    Kabhi tanhayon mein yun hamari yaad ayegi
•    Mujhko apne galay laga lo ae mere hamrahi
•    Kuch ajnabi se aap hein, kuch ajnabi se hum
•    Hum haale dil sunaenge, suniye ke na suniye
•    Bemurawwat bewafa beganae dil aap hein
•    Nigahon se dil mein chale ayeeye ga
 
These are some of the many gems created from the soulful voice and refreshing repertoire of Mubarak Begum, who sang for many Indian films in the 50s and 60s. Mubarak Begum is barely alive and lives in Mumbai. I say barely because despite being in her late 70s and with multiple health issues herself, she is having a hard time keeping her head above water with little or no income and is additionally saddled with the responsibility of taking care of her 40 year old daughter Shafiq Bano, who is suffering from acute Parkinson's Disease. The singer's husband died many years ago and her only son is a cab driver who lives separately with his family. She would have been in even deeper waters, had it not been for poet Javed Akhtar and the late Sunil Dutt, who by their efforts made a strong case and managed to secure a Government flat for her to have a roof on her head. Mubarak Begum is a forgotten story who has been systematically plucked and put away by the film industry, despite her immense talent” says the email. The email also had an appeal for funds.

His email caught the attention of Deeptiman Tiwary of the Mumbai Mirror who published an article on the topic in that popular newspaper which received tremendous attention and brought well deserved help to Mubarak Begum

“You would be glad to know that there has been a great response to the piece.A director who has given a big hit this year with his debut film took her details from me and said he wanted to put about Rs 15,000 every month in her account. Just wanted to say, it wouldn't have been possible without you” said Tiwary

Yet another note came from the president of Shruthi, Rohan Pusalkar. “I was very pleased to read your email and note the actions taken to help Mubarak
Begum. It was heartwarming to hear of that. I would be more than pleased to extend my personal financial support. I am taking actions this week to that end. Part of Shruti's activities is to organize financial support to such luminaries of yesteryear who are today in need” says Palusar.

Khan is overjoyed to see the response. “A benefit concert for MB in Baroda is already in motion. And she will perform herself. I amazed at her voice even when she just talks. More than anything else, I think this will help others in similar (or worse) conditions.  Gosh, I can't believe that this is happening. She was going hysterical with joy when I last spoke to her” says Khan.

Siraj Khan is a fine example of a fan.  His actions speak loud and clealy about the power of care and compassion. Lokvani is honored to know this great man and salutes his efforts.

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