NCPA to present ‘Aamchi Mumbai’ A version of the city through Gulzar’s verses
India, 28th October, 2025: This October, the NCPA turns its spotlight on the city that never stops moving with Aamchi Mumbai, a special evening built around the words and music of legendary poet and lyricist Gulzar. Curated and co-presented by theatre-maker Salim Arif, the programme blends readings, live music and conversation to explore how Mumbai has shaped — and been shaped by one of India’s most distinctive literary voices. The event takes off with Gulzar in conversation with Arif on how he has seen the city change over the last 60 years. This will be interspersed with a presentation of songs based on select poems of Gulzar set to music. In a rousing finale, the celebrated poet will himself recite a few poems creating a wholesome experience for the audience.
In a career spanning over 50 years, Gulzar has written timeless poems in Urdu, Hindi, and Punjabi, often translating works from Bangla, and capturing the ever-changing life of the city with rare sensitivity. In conversation with curator Salim Arif, Gulzar will reflect on how the city has shaped his work and how it continues to surprise him. Between these exchanges, his poems take on new life as composer Amod Bhatt will set them to music for Vibhavari Apte-Joshi and Hrishikesh Ranade, two celebrated singers known for their ability to turn words into song. A live ensemble creates the soundscape, and in a fitting finale, Gulzar himself recites a selection of poems — an unmissable chance to hear the master’s voice alongside the music it inspires.
With poetry, music and memories woven together, Aamchi Mumbai offers a rare chance to see Gulzar interpret his own work alongside some of India’s most accomplished performers. Join us to be part of this one-of-a-kind evening that celebrates Mumbai’s ever-changing story through the eyes of one of its most cherished chroniclers.