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When you thought you’d seen it all… …along comes the MASTI 2015 TOUR… Be prepared for a Gurdas Maan show like never before… …an evening of unprecedented entertainment awaits.
CONTENTS: 07
Gurdas Maan Message
08
Masti
10
10 Years
11
10 Verses
12
The People’s Performer
14
Destiny - A Scene
17
Sponsors
19
PTC Network
24
Venues
26 Join us-2017 //////////// 27
UK Box Office
Thank You! Ash and Jag would like to take this opportunity to thank the following for helping out during the organisation of the Masti UK Tour 2015: UK BOX OFFICE ‘A’ TEAM 2015: Diptesh Patel, Khalid Akhtar and Harry Sandhu. MEDIA SUPPORT: PTC Punjabi, Zee TV, Star TV, B4U Music, Venus, Asian Star Radio, Desi Radio, Nu Sounds Radio, Radio XL, BBC Asian Network, Biz Asia, Punjab 2000,
Ashok Suman & Jagjit Suman Directors, UK BOX OFFICE
WELCOME It seems like just yesterday that we brought to you the Gurdas Maan Ishq Da Giddha UK Tour 2013, but time tells us it has been two years; and so speedily have they flown by. And here we are, proud, privileged and humbled to bring to you yet another sell-out evening with Gurdas Maan - the Masti UK Tour 2015. Truth be told, as soon as the curtains came to a close on the 2013 stage, we began work right away with not a frown to be seen; making plans, scheduling stages, and brainstorming new ideas as we excitedly prepared for this evening. The outcome? Well, that shall unravel tonight. Resting on our proverbial laurels is not part of the UK Box Office ethos. We recognised that our ten year association with Gurdas Maan warranted something spectacular tonight. Something ‘out of the box’ from the previous Gurdas Maan shows - that ten year celebratory addition. And as you’ll see before you, we would like to think that has been achieved. So, thank you all for showing your support and turning up in your droves, yet again. We hope you enjoy what is anticipated to be a unique concert and indulge in yet another memorable evening with the legend himself – Mr. Gurdas Maan.
Des Pardes, Pardes Weekly, Punjab Times,
Warm wishes from the entire team at UK Box Office.
Punjabi Telegraph and Samaaj Weekly.
See you all in 2017!
When you thought you’d seen it all… …along comes the MASTI 2015 TOUR… Be prepared for a Gurdas Maan show like never before… …an evening of unprecedented entertainment awaits. Ashok Suman & Jagjit Suman Directors, UK BOX OFFICE
Ashok Suman (Director, UK Box Office)
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MAAN’S MOMENTS: Gurdas Maan receives an Honorary Doctorate in World Music from the University of Wolverhampton, 2010
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To My Beloved Fans United Kingdom
It is with God’s grace I write this letter with great excitement and anticipation. What seems like just a heartbeat ago since we last met has in fact been two years; whisked away in a moment. And here we are again, where it’s not a matter of you having the privilege of seeing me perform, but rather the privilege lies with me. It has been a joyous ten years since I have been with the team at UK Box Office and what better way to commemorate that relationship than with a show that has something new. Something fresh. Every time my mind envisions the 2015 tour, my heart skips a melodious beat. Such is the excitement I feel when I dwell on what we have to look forward to together. And how fitting it is that we entitle the 2015 show, the “Masti” tour. The evening will be nothing but a journey of masti – we’ll dance carefree, we’ll sing to the heavens, and we’ll revel in the moment. Tonight we shall truly celebrate in that masti. Lastly, I want to thank you all for coming in your thousands to celebrate with me. I need not express the mutual joy that is so palpable once the curtains are raised as your presence alone is, and always has been, evidence to those emotions. I am humbled by your uncompromising love beyond comprehension. If through my songs I can leave a little bit of myself with you and have a positive impact that strikes a chord in your heart and soul, then my greatest possible achievement of this tour will have been reached. I shall leave with you and take with me all of these wonderful memories and already look forward to seeing you all in another two years. Bas… masti manaa. Yours, with love,
Gurdas Maan India
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In simple terms, masti can be described as a “divinelike state or trance, often characterised by one’s actions/ movements which replicate a sense of detachment and emotional ecstasy.” It is derived from the term ‘mast’ – which is used to not only describe a person in such a state, but is commonly referred to a sage or person believed to be ‘spiritually blessed’ with no attachment to home and a denouncement of secular possessions. THE MASTI OF MAAN…
THE MAGIC OF MASTI…
Often described by audiences and critics alike as being the most energetic and encapsulating stage performer of his kind, Gurdas Maan’s performances, be it in the studio booth or stage, are seen by many as having that ‘trance-like’ quality. His mesmerising dance moves, famed for getting absorbed within the sounds of the moment and delivery of lyrics have become the “Maan way” – full of masti.
“Ehnu pee te hor mangaa” (Drink [this ‘masti’] and order more...”) – Gurdas Maan, Masti (1983)
It should also be noted that Maan - perhaps due to his incomparable songwriting style invariably layered with spiritual sub-texts, not to mention his ever-humble offstage persona – is not only admired by his fans but also revered. Such is Maan’s magic; such is his mast…
The above lyric from Maan’s song Masti, taken from the album of the same name, became an instant sensation and has over the years garnered a cult-following. Considered by many ardent fans as one of Maan’s finest lyrical works, it was released in 1983 to much acclaim. It is a Sufi song in its truest from, with the first layer of the song donning a secular mask, whist the second unravels the true mystic and spiritual context. The above line indicates the same; to revel in the intoxication of spiritual masti, and not in the literal ‘alcoholic’ kind. And that is a hallmark of a great song – to work on many levels for many listeners.
MAAN’S MOMENTS: Best Album (Heer), Best Singer (Heer), Best Lyricist (Kudiye) at the ETC Punjabi Music Awards (2005)
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THE MECHANICS OF MASTI… THE INTRODUCTORY STANZA… Aisi peeni peeyo sajan ji, Looh looh tera nache, Peeke larna, Te larke marnaa, Eh gal mool naa jache, Ja phir peeyo shaaheeda vaaleh, Jaam watan de sache, Oh jaa pi mast malangaa vaali, Jhedi umar para naa lathe.
Drink such a drink my loved one, That each of your cells shall dance, Fighting through intoxication, Then dying from fighting, This quality does not suit at all, Or then drink the drink of martyrs, The true children of the land, Or then drink the drink of masts, Which throughout your life shall last
The opening lyrics, so painstakingly beautiful and declarative, sets us up for the 9-minute journey we are about to embark on. Maan rapidly warns us of the dangers of the secular in comparison to the spiritual. The dichotomy is brave, courageous and musically blissful.
THE PINNACLE OF THE FIRST VERSE WARNS… Chad dharam’a de chaggre jehre, Na vas tere naa vas mere, Rab de saureh peke kereh, Tenu ki parwaah…
Worry not of the world’s battles of faith, Out of my hands, or nor in yours are they, Just who are God’s in-laws and family, Why should you care?
And then:
THE CHORUS LINE…
Masti manaa mekhaaniya, Sajna teri eho duwaa, Enu pee te hor mangaa…
Oh barman, celebrate masti, Oh loved one, this is your only remedy, Drink this masti and order more
The chorus, if understood for its true meaning, as ever provides a ‘public service’ – typical of Maan’s songs. In essence, it is a melodic effort to hone down on temptation and recognise what is ‘true masti’.
THE BRIDGE…
Aakhaan geya jahaan giya, Dandh gayeh ta khaan giya, Oh puthar geya nishaan giya, Maa peh gayeh araam giya, Sajan geya ta haan giya, Izzat gayi amaan giya, Koi farak nahi pendha, Eh marjaana jeh Maan giya
If your eyes go, surroundings go, Teeth go, food goes, Son goes, honour goes, Parents go, contentment goes, Lover goes, contemporary goes, Dignity goes, pride goes, It makes no difference for if this, ‘Marjaana’ [mere mortal] Maan goes.
Once listened to, the bridge will perhaps never leave your being. It succinctly describes the repercussions for the scarceness of the things we take for granted the most. And in order to touch back on the Sufi context of this song, Maan deprecates his own existence, deeming it worthless, ensuring that the notion of masti is well and truly alive. What makes Masti so special is the unconventional journey that it takes. Conventionally, popular song forms and structures go from A B A B, with an oftuntampered verse and chorus. Masti’s journey is unique – the verses are fast paced with a meaty rhyming scheme and verses that slow and speed up in tempo at appropriate measures. In short, the journey of this song is not a linear and boring ride with the same old fields whizzing by – it’s an exciting and unpredictable one where each new mile is surrounded by new horizons. The ride is fun. The ride is full of masti.
“Masti, masti, masti manaa…“- Gurdas Maan
MAAN’S MOMENTS: National Award - Special Jury Award, Actor - for Gurdas Maan in “Des Hoyaa Pardes” (2004)
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10 YEARS
GURDAS MAAN AND UK BOX OFFICE CELEBRATE A TEN YEAR ASSOCIATION WITH A SEVEN-SHOW SPECTACLE LIKE NONE OTHER.
What better way to mark a ten year relationship of Gurdas Maan and UK Box Office than a show that stands out. A show with a difference. A Maan show unlike any you will have previously seen. And if the debut tour is anything to go by, the ‘decade tour’ is sure to be a memorable one. Though those memories are still rife, the calendar tells us otherwise. It has quite literally been a speedy ten years since Gurdas Maan joined forces with UK Box Office and enjoyed his debut tour under their stewardship. 2005 – THE DEBUT The anticipation and frenzy surrounding Maan’s UK schedule was palpable throughout the preceding months. Media hype was loud, effective and necessary. Unlike previous concerts, there was a sense of excitement with a difference. Things were expected to ‘get bigger’. They did not just do that, mind. They got better. All shows lived up to the proverbial hype and were executed and delivered to standards only previously reserved for mainstream international acts. Let’s examine just one of the shows of that year to appreciate the glory of the 2005 tour. The NEC Arena (Birmingham) staged what can still be considered one of Maan’s finest to date. Bidding farewell to the Midlands for the year, Maan came in full form. And audiences left, and wept, in full satisfaction. Simply put, it was a UK Box Office debut tour to remember. The arena was as populated as can be, with an approximately 11,000-strong
crowd anticipating the entrance of Maan. Unlike his previous shows, the professionalism of the set-up was evident. The stage, the lighting, the paraphernalia. Those little details that make a large difference. “Those little details that make a large difference.” Seats were taken and eyes were peeled. And then, through a splendidly designed stage curtain consisting of a ‘ring of fire’, the instantly recognisable silhouette of the legend stood waiting. And as the flames burned, out came Maan, in flaming red traditional attire, matching the heat of the moment. If this was just his entrance, imagine the middle and dread the exit, for that would be the night’s end. There seemed to be an intangible sense of invigoration that night – a je ne sais quoi. Maan delivered prolifically. His dancing was as energetic as ever, managing to climb atop a large speaker and in the same sequence lie flat on the stage – the consummate performer, indeed. The banter with the crowd was as engaging as the mid-song recital of random poetry inspired instantly from fleeting thoughts. For his spiritual number ‘Sarbaans Daaniya Ve’, Maan untied the belt-come-shawl that wrapped his upper garment together and with it tied a striking turban. The actor in him was released. He instantly got into his momentary character’s skin and belted out a heart pounding number. In fact, the entire emotional spectrum was covered; heartfelt numbers to foot tapping hits. Amidst the crowd were famous faces galore, from local music acts to the biggest names in Bollywood. It seemed that the place to be on this very night was Birmingham’s prestigious NEC Arena. And then it ended. In true Maan style, the final song on the flexible set-list, ‘Peer Tere Jaan Di’, was delivered in what was a difficult goodbye to endure. As it did, the 11,000 undried eyes stood in a
We are nothing short of passionate about this journey that we have taken. And it is indeed just that, a journey, not a destination. The expanding of the brand to corners previously unreached by other companies is what UK BOX OFFICE is on the way toward. This is not only an aspiring aim; this is a projected one. ~ UK BOX OFFICE
rousing ovation as confetti dropped from high above. Off went the fireworks and off went Maan. The applause continued, thanking the legend for what was indeed money well spent. He delivered a service. And UK Box Office received some of those plaudits. They staged a show like none other. Fast forward ten years:
2015 – THE DECADE The same is expected. It’s as if the cosmos have perfectly aligned a juxtaposition of the two shows – the ‘debut and the decade’. Promised in the ten year ‘anniversary’ of sorts is a tour with a difference. After all, that is the Masti UK Tour 2015’s logline. From the staging to performance, the tenth year is sure to be as prolific as the first. The promos for this year’s show have seen social media scrutinised as never before. On top of which, the television ads have been the best yet. A taste of Maan’s excellence packaged in perfectly constructed teaser ads have only increased the excitement for Maan’s UK fans. The general consensus is that Maan tends to get better with time, and UK Box Office has kept up with that mantra. We can look forward to a night of electrifying entertainment with a hint of something new. So let us feast on the magic of the quintessential Gurdas Maan coupled with a touch of new trimmings. And here’s to another ten years! “We can look forward to a night of electrifying entertainment with a hint of something new”
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10 VERSES lack of quality of these masterpieces, as mediocrity and Maan do not mingle, but rather due to limited ‘airplay space’.
The repertoire of artistes who have stood the test of time is naturally vast. Amongst their plethora of gems there are those considered timeless classics. Gurdas Maan’s treasure of tracks is shy of neither; almost every penned piece is that gem, along with a number of those ‘classic’ hits.
And we all know those classics; they’re necessarily ubiquitous in the music world - from Challa and Peer Tere Jaan Di to Sajna Ve Sajna and Pind Diyan Galliyan. But what about those rare diamonds? The ones the ardent Maan fans may be familiar with but not necessarily the wider audience. That’s not due to the
Examining all of Maan’s masterpieces would require a book of its own, but to keep things relevant to the ten year milestone, here are ten heart-melting, poignantly penned verses…
“Kadhe kadhe soniya, ladaiyee changi pyaar di, Par vich hove naa je gal jith, har di, Har’ch bi hunda eh suwaad ve sapaiyaa, Meriya ve mahiya, kaadhi tu tu, mein mein laaiyee ah…”
(Gurdas Maan – Ve Banh Chad, 1983)
(Gurdas Maan – Taariya Di Chunni, 1990)
“Baaro phar phar nabzaa sadeh, Rog nazaar nahi auneh, Kash koi kidh’re peed dil’eh di, Andhar vadke to’eh…”
“Jeeto Keeto bullan te dadaasa maal ke, Kar’n makhaula menu sab hi ral ke, Oh meri saariya’ch tour banaade, Me mele vich phira nach di, Me aag vangu phira mach di, Ve mere peran’ch panjebaan paah de…”
“Just sometimes, a loving quarrel pleases, As long as it’s not about who wins and who loses, Even in such defeat there is a taste so fine, Oh dear loved one, let go of the ‘yours’ and ‘mine’…”
“Checking my pulse by merely touching my skin, You will not discover my ailment, If only somebody could grasp my heart’s pain, By entering my soul and chiselling it away…”
(Gurdas Maan – Kadhi Tu Tu Mein Mein Laaiyee Ah, 1983)
(Gurdas Maan – Raati Chan Nal Gallan Kadke, 2013)
“Tim timaunde taariya, dukha deya maariya, Saade vangu tu bi eh udaas, Tera chan ta mil jaave ga, Sadeh di ni aas…”
“Pehli ghut meri mere sach ton bi kauri eh, Do chaar ghut mere aashiqua laiyee thodi eh, Tenu bi koi jalwaa vakhaake rahoo gi, Aaj tu menu peena, kal me peeyoo gi, Vadeya sharabiya ve, me ha sharaab teri…”
“Oh flickering star, burdened with sorrow, Like us, you too are so very saddened, But you’ll ultimately find your moon, I harbour no hopes of finding mine…”
(Gurdas Maan – Tim Timaunde Taariya, 2001) “Aaj da zamaana zeher sap vangu kol da, Ohi dang maare jera mooh’o meetha bol da, Aapne aap nu yaar kahaunde, kadke vaar gandaase da, Har koi ve ghak tamashe da…” The world today stirs snake-like poison, And it is he who bites that speaks so sweet at first, They yearn to be called friends, after yielding an axe, Oh, how all are customers of the misfortunes of others…”
(Gurdas Maan - Har Koi Ghak Tamashe Da, 1984) “Bedardi nu akal hai thodi Laa liya challa, ungli marodi, Vekhda ni changi mandhi thaa, Ve banh chad, Ghare udeeke meri Maa, ve banh chad…” “The unsympathetic, has little common-sense, You place unto me this ring, but my finger you twist, You see not an appropriate place to do this, Let go of my arm, My mother awaits me at home, let go of my arm…”
My first drop is far more bitter than my truth, But even two, four drops are inadequate for my beaus, I will ultimately cast my spell on you, You drink me today, but tomorrow… I shall drink you, Oh big alcoholic, I am your alcohol that sings…
(Gurdas Maan - Vadiya Sharabiya Ve, 1982) “Jidhe koleh chan aunu taariya di lorh nahi, Sach nu zubaan de sahaariya di lorh nahi, Jag bi naa puche aunu, Rab bi naa puche aunu, Marjaane Maana jedhi maari hove neet ve, Taariya di chunni vaali, muk gaiyee raat kaali, Ajeh bi na muka sadi zindagi da geet ve…” “He who has the moon, needs not the stars, Just as the truth needs not the tongue’s testimony, The world does not ask, nor will the Lord ask, Oh, ‘Marjaana Maan’, of that person consumed by greed, Like a star-filled scarf, has that clear-sky night diminished, But alas, my life’s melody is still not complete…”
“My friends, they boastfully apply their lip paint, Then mock and taunt me together do they, Oh make me stand out from the crowd, So I can dance in the carnival, So I can shine like a flame, bright and loud, Please adorn my feet with new anklets…”
(Gurdas Maan - Peran’ch Panjebaan Paah De, 1982) “Kuch laban khojan laiyee, Jis ghar nu chad chaleya, Us ghar vich meh bi haan, Kadhe ghar bi pharat leh’vee… Dil daulat hai teri, jado marzi khar’ch leh’vee…” “In search and wonderment of pastures new, There’s a house you have left behind, I too live in that very house, Sometimes, just sometimes, come back home will you, Your heart is your wealth, spend it as it pleases you...”
(Gurdas Maan – Dil Daulat Hai Teri, 2001) “Sadeh laiyee tu hor naa behaayee eneh athroo, Agge tere bareh ne ehsaan mere dostaa, Kuch din hor haan mehemaan tere dostaa, Phir tenu aakhdi salaam mere dostaa…” “Do not shed any more tears for me, You are already burdened with so much my friend, I am your guest for only a few more days my friend, Then I will bid a final farewell to you my friend…”
(Gurdas Maan - Salaam Mere Dostaa, 1988)
MAAN’S MOMENTS: The first solo Punjabi artiste to perform at the prestigious Royal Albert Hall (2011)
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THE PEOPLE’S PERFORMER If Gurdas Maan were to pen yet another song about his fans, his ink would run dry and the paper would run short - such is the immeasurable admiration he holds for his followers. Like many of the world’s true greats, Maan truly is the ‘people’s performer’. And time and again he repeats this: Through music. Through words. Through action. Since the debut 2005 UK tour under UK Box Office, Maan’s connection with his international fan-base has been infectious. A performer of his stature doesn’t just perform for the community; he becomes a part of it…
….GURDAS MAAN AND THE PEOPLE WEMBLEY
Over 37% of Wembley central’s population consist of South Asians… … it feels like 100% of those bought tickets for the tour!
BIRMINGHAM
Over quarter of a million South Asians reside in the nation’s second city. Maan seemingly manages to muster most.
CONGREGATION OF COMMUNITIES
Gurdas Maan has long advocated the importance of HUMANITY. His lyrics on such matters do not just dissipate into obscurity; his attraction upholds his beliefs. To whichever faith one is attached, Maan’s lure does not discriminate. In attendance to his concerts or interviews, people of all religious and ethnic backgrounds gather to get a glimpse of the great man.
WHERE THERE’S A GURDAS MAAN CONCERT, THERE’S SURE TO BE A CONCOCTION OF COMMUNITY
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AN AUDIENCE OF ALL AGES
Attend most other artiste’s concerts and you’ll do well to draw up a diverse demographic. Attend a Gurdas Maan show and you’ll do well not to. Besides a mastery of music, Maan is widely renowned as one of the only artistes to have the ability to attract audiences of all ages. From young children still in singledigits to the elder folk touching-triple numbers, Maan’s audience is diverse. And from these pictures, it’s clear to see that they are all as committed as one another. His loyal fans span four generations – from those that migrated to foreign shores during the influx, packing with them bags of culture, to the grafting parents of the now third-generation Brit-Asians, to the young kids of today that have been spellbound from the eavesdropping of Maan’s music blaring from the former. ..
GURDAS MAAN’S ABILITY TO ATTRACT AUDIENCES OF ALL AGES IS UNRIVALLED.
• Masses flock to Maan’s media meetings. • From little girls to big boys, the entire spectrum of fans enjoy the spectacle of shows.
• From Asian audiences with British bases, to English enthusiasts with Asian hearts, they all want a glimpse of an icon.
• Every two years, audiences of tens and thousands gather for just one purpose – the GURDAS MAAN TOUR.
BRINGING FANS TOGETHER
With a loyal international fan-base and a busy international schedule, the Gurdas Maan shows seem to garner much communication amongst the cyber world. Fans rush to forums to discuss the latest tour, analysing and scrutinising every segment of the stage to dissecting and discussing his dance moves. In simple terms, when Maan is on tour, the media platforms are sure to be busy. Since 2005, under UK Box Office, Maan’s UK tours have been the centre of much attention amongst his online fans. Notably, fans from the Gurdas Maan official website forum would articulate their experiences of the tours with one another and eventually a VIRTUAL FRIENDSHIP blossomed between Maan’s most ardent enthusiasts. A single platform was born for fans from every corner of the world; from Europe to the Americas, and India to Oceania.
GURDAS MAAN’S UK TOURS CREATE A CYBER-COMMUNITY OF FRIENDS
With so many people of the Asian and international community coming together and being mesmerised by Maan’s magnificence, it is little wonder that with each passing year social, public and media attention has grown. And IT’S GROWING. It seems like Maan’s ability to unite people of all backgrounds in such a short space of time does more good than most can achieve in a lifetime of trying. The 2015 Gurdas Maan ‘Masti’ UK Tour shall be just as relentless with no signs of slowing down…
THE JOURNEY HAS JUST GOTTEN BETTER…
“DESTINY” - A SCENE CAFÉ, PUNJAB – MORNING A young GURDAS MAAN, on the brink of entering the professional sphere, sits at a table alone, sipping warm tea from a steaming glass. He takes a deep breath, looking slightly apprehensive as he dwells on life; decisions to be made, a living to be earned. One of the cafe workers approaches him; a familiar face. WORKER Ah, Gurdas. My favourite black-belt in Judo! What are you doing here? Goa’s institution not called you yet? Gurdas looks confused. WORKER (cont’d) Interview card? Gurdas, has no one informed you? They’re holding interviews in Chandigarh for the post. You can get a card from the university if you hurry. A look of realisation masks Gurdas’ face.
VILLAGE ROAD – MORNING A motorbike speeds by on a typically hot morning. Gurdas sits as a passenger on his friend’s bike. He’s holding onto a folder full of personal certificates; rushing to the interview.
FRIEND What’s happened? As if a ghost has been seen, Gurdas’ face is washed with fear and anguish; every emotion that drains hope out of a person has just consumed him. His folder is missing certificates! GURDAS My certificates! My certificates! Where have they -They look back at the long stretch of road behind them and: Little naked boys, the type you find wandering about Punjab’s village lanes, are playing around with the bits of paper that were Gurdas’ certificates. Blown away by the wind, some of the boys are seen making little paper-trumpets with them, oblivious to what they’re holding. Gurdas rushes down the road, dodging oncoming traffic and picking up any legible certificates he finds on his way. He snatches some of the ‘paper-trumpets’ from the boys’ mouths. They scamper away, most of them laughing cheekily. After scouring through the damaged papers, he finds a couple more pieces by his feet. He picks them up. It’s the prized possession; his First Class in Master of Physical Education certificate is torn.
GURDAS (anxious) Thanks again for giving me a ride, pal.
An unchecked tear trickles down his cheek. He looks back at his friend in the distance. They both don an expression of defeat.
FRIEND Let’s just hope we make it on time.
GURDAS’ HOUSE, PATIALA – NIGHT
BAROOR – LATER THAT MORNING The bike enters the town of Baroor. When suddenly it staggers. Then finally it stops. Gurdas and his friend frantically try to restart it. No success. Just then, a tractor-trolley drives by. They look at each other and… Both have decided to latch onto the back of the trolley’s chain, towing themselves to any nearby garage.
GARAGE - LATER ON The bike, now finally repaired from any nearby garage is back, ready for the road. GURDAS I guess I’m just not destined for this interview. FRIEND Stop worrying. We’ll make it. The heat is unbearable and time is short. Sweat and anxiety drips from Gurdas’ face as they try to make it back on the road.
RAJPURA – AFTERNOON The bike enters the bustling town of Rajpura; crowds of people, traffic in every direction… GURDAS Stop! His friend stops the bike at the roadside.
It’s a modest, rented accommodation. Noise of traffic can be heard from outside. Gurdas sits at a little coffee table trying to glue together his Master of Physical Education certificate. There’s little hope. He sits back and sighs. He closes his eyes…
31 YEARS LATER BROADCAST ARENA – DAY Gurdas sits on stage across from the host; they’re in the middle of a recorded interview, with hundreds of fans in attendance. GURDAS …and that was the tale of my calling. God simply had other plans for me. Shortly after that incident I received a call to perform a song on national television. And the rest, as they say, is history. God tore my certificate of physical education and handed me another one. One that has taken me straight to the Royal Albert Hall, performing for thousands of fans in a career that I was born to serve. This was my destiny.
END.
“…for something stolen from me, ‘twas the first time I cried, Then, one of God’s true men came passing by, ‘Lost something? But you were born with nothing’, he pried, ‘Oh, enlightened one, I’ve lost something of value’ to him I replied, ‘Fool! He takes something small to give you so much more, but you’ll know not why…” Gurdas Maan (2008)
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SPONSORS The biggest name in the industry attracts the biggest names in the industries. Seen surrounding the stages during the tour have been some of the biggest brand names, all playing a part and indeed being a part of the most important date in the Punjabi music calendar. Therefore, it goes without saying that the gratitude travels both ways. UK Box Office would like to take this opportunity to thank all those eager to have been involved in this incredible journey that is the Gurdas Maan Masti UK Tour 2015.
In Association with:
Online Media Partner:
Supporting Radio Partners
MAAN’S MOMENTS: Honoured with the ‘Kohinoor of Punjab’ recognition by PTC Network (2012)
THE LEGEND – GURDAS MAAN Humility like no other, talent galore and wisdom of experience…that is Gurdas Maan. ‘Maan Saab’ as he is fondly called by one and all, has been a name synonymous with the Punjabi entertainment industry for over 3 decades now. The poet, the lyricist, the composer, the actor and of course, the singer lives in the hearts of a generation which has grown up listening to his soulful music. From “Thoda Thoda Hasna Zaroor” to “Dil Da Mamla” …. cut to “Main Laj Paalan” … the legend continues and what a legend it is! For PTC Network, Ms. Rajiee M Shinde and Mr. Rabindra Narayan, Gurdas Maan Ji is family.
“Such is the aura of Maan, that it could not have been any other way,” says Rajiee M Shinde, CEO and Director – PTC Network. “We have worked together on multiple events across two decades. He was an inspiration back then and continues to inspire today as well. True to his art, still with innocence and seek of a newcomer. The experience of a lifetime still waiting for his best maybe, but best he already is! Ironical as it may sound, that is Maan Saab to me,” she ponders. “There is and never will be another like him. Proud to be a lifetime contemporary of this legend,” Shinde concludes.
“They say you can’t be such a soulful performer if you are not a good soul in the first place. For all the adulation he enjoys across the world, this man is grounded and thankful. That’s rare. The strength of character reflects in his work,” Mr. Rabindra Narayan, President & Director – PTC Network,
PTC NETWORK WORLD’S NO.1 PUNJABI TELEVISION NETWORK PTC Network, comprising of PTC Punjabi, PTC News & PTC Chak De, are leading Punjabi entertainment, Punjabi news & Punjabi music channels. The channels are commitment bound to the overall objective of being relevant to Punjabi viewers through various programming initiatives. PTC comprises of a team of professionals who had successfully launched and managed ETC Channel Punjabi & Zee Punjabi. The same team had come together to launch and make the PTC Network of
channels as the leading Punjabi satellite channels network. PTC Punjabi, the flagship channel from PTC Network, is available on leading platforms across India, Europe, USA, Canada, Australia and New Zealand. PTC News and PTC Chak De, available widely in India, are soon to be launched in the USA. In Europe, PTC Punjabi telecasts Gurbani from Sri Harmandir Saheb, Amritsar daily morning and evening. The programming folder proudly includes the latest Punjabi
feature films, updated news bulletins, reality shows and talent hunts, mega scale events and award functions. The latest Punjabi music from India and locally from the UK is aired. The channel is available on Sky network channel no. 815. Sworn to professionalism, the channel and its team are committed to serve both the industry and the viewers with zeal and dedication.
RAJIEE M SHINDE
RABINDRA NARAYAN
Two decades of experience behind her, Ms. Shinde was earlier with the ZEE GROUP in the capacity of BUSINESS HEAD of ETC CHANNEL PUNJABI and ZEE PUNJABI. She was also heading the programming division for ALPHA ETC PUNJABI (in the UK & USA). She started her career with Srishti Videocorp Channel YES and then took over the promo division of Home TV (of Hindustan Times). She has been instrumental in launching LIVE telecasts of events in various parts of India as well as abroad. Her biggest success has been the organisation of big events in different parts of the world including Trafalgar Square (London), New Zealand, UAE and Canada which were attended by top dignitaries of the country. Shinde specialises in design and development of high-interest television software and entertainment events.
Rabindra Narayan is a seasoned media professional. A pioneer in the field of Punjabi television, Narayan was the leader of the team that launched the firstever Punjabi satellite channel, Punjabi World. He has played an important role in putting Gurbani on the world’s television map as the team led by him started beaming Gurbani Kirtan from Sri Darbar Sahib, Amritsar, in 1998. He has also been honoured with the Delhi State Punjabi Media Award by Delhi Government’s Punjabi Academy in 2003. He has also contributed his might to the cause of Punjabi theatre where he has worked as an actor, director and designer since 1983 with Dr. C.D. Sidhu and others. He was also the General Secretary with Collegiate Drama Society which has staged over 2000 shows during the past two decades. His biggest achievement was the creation of the first-ever sound-n-light multi-media stage show, Aazaadi Dey Taraaney, to commemorate the Golden Jubilee of Indian Independence.
DIRECTOR & CEO – PTC NETWORK
Among the various reality talent hunt shows conceptualised and produced by her at PTC, the most prominent ones are PTC Punjabi Music Awards – a felicitation of the greatest talent in the Punjabi music industry, PTC Punjabi Film Awards – the most prestigious annual Punjabi film awards , Miss PTC – a talent and beauty hunt for deserving Punjabi girls, Voice of Punjab – a singing talent hunt show in Punjab, Laughter Da Master - a stand up talent hunt show, Voice of Punjab Chhota Champ – singing talent hunts for kids and Mr. Punjab – a personality and talent hunt show for Punjabi men. She is credited for the launch of PTC Motion Pictures in 2013, spearheading the production, promotion and release of Punjabi films in India and internationally.
DIRECTOR & PRESIDENT – PTC NETWORK
The show produced, in collaboration with Punjabi Academy, was staged at many places including the historic Red Fort. Narayan has also been a respected journalist. He was Asstt. Editor with The Weekly SUN in the early nineties and before that he was Culture Editor with Sunday Mail. He was also a respected music and film critic during his stint as a journalist and wrote columns in various publications. Essentially a team man, Narayan continues to serve the cause of Punjab, Punjabi and Punjabiyat through the Punjabi channels.
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THE VENUES: ICONIC ARENAS The formula is simple - iconic individuals perform in the world’s most iconic venues. As ever, UK BOX OFFICE will be bringing Gurdas Maan to the legendary stages of the Genting Arena and The SSE Arena Wembley. In essence, this is not a sudden off-the-cuff decision; it is a matter of meeting demand. For years, Gurdas Maan has remained the only, with the stress on only, solo Punjabi artiste to consistently frequent the mighty Genting Arena and The SSE Arena Wembley. These mammoth venues are where all the proverbial big boys play. If as an artiste you have soloed at either venue, then you have not just made it, you have earned it.
GENTING ARENA Situated in England’s second largest city, Birmingham, the iconic venue, in 2011, became the tenth busiest arena in the world, just behind Madison Square Garden. The Genting Arena has played host to some of the biggest names in entertainment; from the global phenomena of The Spice Girls and modern giants such as Jay-Z and Rihanna, to legendary acts such as Iron Maiden and Queen.
“To welcome legendary Punjabi singer Gurdas Maan, once again to this iconic venue, is an honour. Our long lasting association has produced spectacular evenings and we already look forward to future concerts.”
Genting Arena, National Exhibition Centre, Birmingham B40 1NT www.gentingarena.co.uk Capacity: 14,000.
THE SSE ARENA WEMBLEY No tour of a major artiste can be complete without a date in the nation’s capital. London’s second largest arena has seen some rather iconic acts grace its rather iconic stage. Unrivalled acts such as The Beatles have performed here three times with legendary singer-songwriter Bob Dylan selling more than 150,000 tickets. Contemporary superstars such as Beyonce and Madonna have both played to sell-out crowds. The SSE Arena Wembley, Arena Square, Engineers Way, London HA9 OAA www.ssearena.co.uk Capacity: 12,500.
MAAN’S MOMENTS: Gurdas Maan receives Doctor of Literature (Honris causa) from Punjabi University, Patiala (2012)
“We look forward once again to hosting the inimitable Gurdas Maan. He seems to attract more fans with each and every show and delights the capacity crowd with his engaging performances. It is indeed an honour and privilege.”
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JOIN US - 2017 On behalf of the entire UK Box Office team, I would like to thank you all for your input in making this tour the success it has been. And once the dust settles and smoke clears from the 2015 stage, the wheels for the next tour will be in motion. And if the previous years have taught us anything, it’s that one simple notion: time truly does fly. So let us not waste any of that precious time or ponder the prospect of missed opportunity; let us all seize the potential of the next UK Box Office adventure.
“LET US ALL SEIZE THE POTENTIAL…” WHAT’S NEXT?
If the Masti UK Tour 2015 is anything to go by, then the next will promise nothing but commercial, critical and pioneering triumph. Ideas for the 2017 show have already been brainstormed and creative, business and performance spaces have already been identified. So take this as an official invitation to BE A PART OF 2017
More media mayhem, more social successes, continuing community gatherings and an OPPORTUNITY OF A LIFETIME for you to join the ride…
MAAN’S MOMENTS: First Punjabi singer to be named brand ambassador for giant, Coca-Cola (2009)
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MANAGEMENT/ DISTRIBUTION/ LIVE/ STUDIO/ FILM
Be part of this Premier Record Label -
HOME TO THE WORLD’S GREATEST PUNJABI ARTIST GURDAS MAAN. We are looking for the best talent. Submit Your Application to: info@ukboxoffice.net
/ukboxoffice.net
UK BOX OFFICE IN ASSOCIATION WITH TV PARTNER PTC PUNJABI PROUDLY PRESENTS
GURDAS MAAN LIVE IN CONCERT
PRESENTED BY
Ash Suman & Jag Suman Directors, UK BOX OFFICE Starring
Gurdas Maan With special thanks to
Mrs. Manjeet Maan
Programme Designed by: www.paperbridge.co.uk • Written by: Sukhi Randhawa