Remembering Mahender Kapoor

The Sikh Society of Australia (SSA) took a wonderful trip down memory lane on September 12, courtesy of the ‘ Mahender Kapoor’ musical evening. The event paid homage to the talented, powerful and popular playback singer on his first death anniversary, and commemorated his profound contribution to the world of Hindi and Punjabi music. The function also marked the 10th anniversary of the SSA, and was attended by an audience of nearly 300.The chief guest of the evening was Mr Jagdeep Singh Shergill, Commissioner, Victorian Multicultural Commission. The talented and much admired singers of the evening were Gurmit Sahni, Inderjit Jasal, Dr Parminder Mundae, Aarti Chhabbra and Inderjeet Singh. The musical sojourn was marked by the soulful rendition of chart topping solo numbers of Mahender Kapoor like the evergreen “Hey, neele gagan ke tale’ and “Na mooh chhupa key jeeyo” from the film Humraaz. His distinctive patriotic songs like “Hai preet jahan ki reet sada” from the film Purab Aur Paschim were amongst the many others from his repertoire. The evocative singing of the Melbourne-based singers had the audience asking for more. Duets of the singer like “Dil ki ye aarzoo thi koi dilruba mile” from the film Nikaah, “Jiskey sapney humen roz aate rahe” from the film Geet and “Dil karta o yaara dildaara mera” from the film Aadmi Aur Insaan were stirring and enthralled the crowd. Some of his popular Punjabi songs were also presented. Equally touching was a self-composed devotional song rendered by Navtej at the start of the proceedings. Dance group Bollywood

Beats performed a medley of spirited dances choreographed to some foot-tapping contemporary Hindi film songs. Mr Inderjit Jasal, on behalf of The Sikh Society of Australia, briefed the audience about the activities of the society and thanked all the sponsors, artists, musicians and volunteers who worked hard to make the event a success. The show was capably hosted by Mrs Dilpreet Jaswal, cultural coordinator of the Society. The finale was marked by a lucky draw and tokens of appreciation were presented to the performers by the management committee. The appetizing dinner that followed the musical treat, was enjoyed by all.

Kudos to The Sikh Society of Australia for hosting such a melodic and memorable evening.

Madhuchanda Das

place to be.

The Premiere’s visit also saw the official launch of Sri Guru Granth Sahibji Academy that was initiated in April This year. The Premiere visited the training course and spoke briefly to the students of the Academy. He was also briefed about the Sikh Helping Sikhs (SHS) and Save Our Sikhs (SOS) projects. The Premiere enthusiastically took part in the proceedings of the regular Sunday program at the Gurudwara. He did not hesitate to bow before the Holy granth and eat the langar along with his delegates.