Jaddan Bai, First female MD Options

[Faraaj73]

Nargis is known as one of the greatest film actresses in indian cinema history. She was introduced to the film world through her mother Jaddanbai, a prominent film industry figure in her day, but today a forgotten name.

Jaddanbai was originally a nautch girl. It is rumoured to this day that she was fathered by Motilal Nehru. In the absence of DNA testing, this will always remain a rumour!

However, apart from this notoriety, Jaddanbai had the honour of being the first female music director in indian cinema, narrowly beating Saraswati Devi. In fact, she directed, wrote lyrics, composed, acted and sang. Below is a partial filmography. It is difficult to ascertain what roles - acting, singing, directing, music - she played in each film. However, we do know that her first assignment as MD was in Talash e Haq (1935). She also directed most of the below films.

Raja Gopichand (1933)
Insaan Ya Shaitan (1933)
Prem Pariksha (1934)
Talash e Haq (1935)
Hriday Manthan (1936)
Madam Fashion (1936)
Jeevan Swapna (1937)
Moti Ka Haar (1937)

I have not heard of any of her film songs or compositions. The only song I have heard is the non-film Lagat Karejwaa Mein Chot (uploaded by Abhay a few months back). If any member has songs composed or sung by her, and would like to share, please do so here.

Kind Regards
Faraaj