Shankar Iyer | burmanfan@yahoo.com

Swar Aalap, an organization committed to the cause of musicians, organized an eventful programme with well appreciated prolific Indian Playback Singer and The Javed Ali performing on stage. Manik Sabhagriha, Bandra witnessed an energetic and engaging evening filled with songs and live performances by the singer that left the audience wanting for more.

The Felicitation ceremony

We all know how important the contribution of songs has been to the success of Hindi movies. Swar Aalap, founded by Dinesh Ghate, has endeavored to recognize the efforts of those talented artistes by acknowledging, researching and presenting their work to the audience at large. As this was another opportunity to contribute to and bolster the noble intent. The evening of Aug 17 August intended to felicitate noted senior instrumentalist, music assistants to composers Laxmikant-Pyarelal ace Guitarist Gorakh Sharma and noted Rhythmist Late Shashikant Kudalkar. The Felicitation ceremony was graced with the presence of Mr Sushil Jiwrajka (Honorary Consulate General, Greece), Mr Ashok Kacker (Chairman, INB Services), Mr. Nikunj Turakhia (CEO, Standared Group) and the Johnny Lever (Indian Actor), the strong pillars as well as believers of Swar Aalap.

The magic of memorable yesteryear

The proceedings commenced with Javed Ali rendering the bouquet of contemporary and vintage melodies that captivated all present in the auditorium. The magic of memorable yesteryear numbers was brought out via the singer’s sincere, energetic and passion-filled execution. Songs like “Parda hai parda hai” and “Mera toh job hi kadam hai” immediately established a connection. “Nazar na lag jaaye” and “Dard-e-dil” with added trivia on Gorakh Sharma being Guitarist for both songs made it more nostalgic and delightful. Expectedly, the felicitation function for the two artistes was followed by a request for Gorakh Sharma to play the Guitar live on stage. It was amazing to see the ease with which the champion artiste quickly got ready to play the evergreen theme music of the film Karz. The electrifying electric Guitar playing stood out and will remain in memory for long.

An appreciation for Swar Aalap’s tireless efforts

Javed Ali’s constant endeavor to charge the audience and keep all involved continued with songs like “Ek din teri raahon mein” (Naqaab), “Maula mere maula” (Delhi 6) and “Khwaja mere khwaja” (Jodha Akbar). The “ever welcome” presence of veteran comedian Johnny Lever coupled with his unbeatable delivery style and light-hearted jokes had the audience in splits. On the other hand, the everlasting impact HFM (Hindi Film Music) has had on him and his appreciation for Swar Aalap’s tireless efforts presented a serious, though pleasant, contrast of sorts.

There were various others present who made the evening possible and more special. Co-singer Shrinidhi Ghatate with her mellifluous voice and Anup Shankar with his band. A Special thanks to or associate sponsors Bank of India and Godrej Properties, Radio Partner 92.7 big FM and PR partner Bubble communication. No praise would be enough to highlight the efforts of the well-coordinated core Swar Aalap volunteer team driven by Rubina Khan and Nirav Ghate, the ongoing key support from Pratik Shah and Ashwin Boricha. As a well- thought and executed theme, getting a contemporary singer on stage to share perspective and relive vintage numbers was perfect message and re-iteration to music lovers not grown up on those songs. A solid demonstration of the power of those melodies to attract and move souls. Not surprisingly, Bollywood music will remain in our hearts forever!!!