Fans rally to save RD Burman’s family home in Kolkata, urge government to create museum honouring musical legends

Fans urge to create RD Burman home a museum

One of the most prominent music directors in Hindi cinema, RD Burman, also referred to as Pancham Da, is remembered for his more than 330 films and his timeless melodies.

Another influential person in Indian music was his father, SD Burman. Collectively, they shaped Bollywood music's heyday.

According to News18, in the centre of South Kolkata, music enthusiasts are fervently urging the preservation of a deteriorating fragment of India's rich musical legacy—the childhood home of renowned composers Rahul and Sachin Dev Burman.

Devoted supporters are now demanding that the property, which is located at 36/1 South End Park, be restored and turned into a museum after years of neglect.

In just one week, an online petition started by a group of fervent citizens has amassed over 7,000 signatures. They're hoping the wave of support will force the government to take action.

“This house is not just brick and mortar — it echoes with melodies that shaped Indian music. Instead of being lost to time, it deserves to be turned into a living museum, a cultural space that honours their genius and nurtures future talent,” the petition reads.

The movement has reignited attention on promises made years ago. In January 2021, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee renamed the road outside the house as “Sangeet Sarani” in honour of the musical giants. At the time, discussions were held about converting the home into a museum. However, according to family members, those intentions never materialised.

RD Burman’s uncle, Abhijit Dasgupta, expressed his dismay in a conversation with The Telegraph. “We were promised a museum. We were told a blue plaque would be installed. In 2021, they even renamed the street Sangeet Sarani. But nothing beyond symbolism has happened,” he said. He further questioned, “If the Ministry of External Affairs can offer help to restore a Ray-linked building in Mymensingh, why can’t our own state protect this house steeped in musical history?”

Despite the inaction, supporters remain undeterred. Dasgupta, who initiated the petition, affirmed, “This time we’re determined to see it through.”

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When asked about the petition, Swapan Samaddar, Member, Mayor-in-Council (Environment & Heritage), claimed, “I have not received any such petition. If I do, I’ll take necessary steps.” He also noted he was not handling the heritage portfolio in 2021.

RD Burman, affectionately known as Pancham Da, was one of the most influential music directors in Hindi cinema, leaving behind a legacy of over 330 films and a trail of timeless melodies. His father, SD Burman, was also a towering figure in Indian music. Together, they helped define the golden era of Bollywood music.