Kolkata's culture and music lovers were treated to a special evening curated by House 54, an institution that beautifully weaves together art, creativity, and human stories. This time, they brought to life Retro Night at Usha's Café, a celebration where memories, melodies, nostalgia, and emotions blended seamlessly.
The night was dedicated to the beloved and iconic artist Usha Uthup, whose presence alone turned the event into a heartfelt tribute.
As evening light faded, a nostalgic journey began to unfold. Usha Uthup took the stage and captivated the audience with a selection of her timeless songs in Hindi, Bengali, and English.
The moment the first note resonated through the hall, a pin-drop silence settled in. It felt as though the entire audience held their breath, absorbed in the depth of her voice. Her songs carried with them the tenderness of bygone days, gently transporting listeners back to moments long cherished. Through her melodies, emotions resurfaced, and the audience revisited the golden times etched in memory.
Song after song followed, each carrying its own charm. With every performance, Usha Uthup shared little stories — anecdotes, moments, and memories that shaped the songs. These personal insights created a powerful, intimate bond between the artist and her listeners.
The evening was hosted by Anindya Chattopadhyay, whose lively presence, humour, and storytelling added an extra layer of warmth to the program. His interactions brought lightness and connection to the flow of the event. Joining him in welcoming guests was Ginia Pande, whose presence added further grace. A special highlight of the night was a heartfelt joint performance by Anindya Chattopadhyay and Upal Sengupta in honour of their beloved Usha-di.
Another emotionally charged moment came when Usha Uthup and Upal Sengupta performed an exclusive duet — a musical exchange that left the audience visibly moved.
The ambience played an equally important role in shaping the experience. Vintage décor inspired by the 70s transformed the entire café into something akin to an old film set. Retro elements, warm lights, and creative set design brought alive an era when melodies ruled and simplicity defined charm.
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But House 54 has always believed that art is also a medium for social responsibility. True to this belief, the event subtly integrated their ongoing initiatives for autism and dyslexia awareness, reminding audiences that creativity and compassion coexist within every space they design. These efforts remained closely connected to the spirit of the evening.
Held at Sangeet Kala Mandir on November 20, 2025, the event resonated with a single, heartfelt sentiment: “This night is not just a program.” It was an expression of togetherness, a moment of returning to oneself through music. It offered peace, joy, nostalgia, and reflection most effortlessly. Whether attendees were lifelong lovers of classic melodies or young listeners discovering the beauty of retro music, everyone found something deeply personal — a connection to memory, emotion, and the timeless power of song.
