Sargam Society Celebrates Musical Legends Lata Mangeshkar and Jagjit Singh at ‘Mehfil-e-Music’
Avtar Singh Bhanwara
CHANDIGARH: Sargam Society of Indian Music and Art (Regd.), in collaboration with the Chandigarh Sangeet Natak Akademi (CSNA), organised a musical evening titled “Mehfil-e-Music” at Mini Tagore Theatre, in eternal tribute to two legendary singers, Lata Mangeshkar and Jagjit Singh. The programme celebrated their timeless contribution to Indian music through soulful melodies, memorable ghazals and captivating performances.
Marking the auspicious occasion of Navratri, the programme commenced with two devotional songs dedicated to Mata Rani, “Mere Kanth Baso Maharani” and “Jagdishwari Sarveshwari”, beautifully rendered by renowned singer Dr. Komal Chugh.
Sushil Nagpal followed with Jagjit Singh’s solo song “Kaun Aayega Yahan”. He then teamed up with Priyanka for two memorable duets, “Gham Ka Khazana Tera Bhi Hai Mera Bhi” and “Pehle To Apne Dil Ki Lagi Jaan Jaiye”. Priyanka also impressed the audience with a graceful rendition of Chitra Singh’s solo song “Kabhi To Khul Ke Baras”.
Under the leadership of Dr. Sukhwinder Kaur Brar, popularly known as Sukhi Brar, a renowned Punjabi folk singer and Chairperson of the Chandigarh Sangeet Natak Akademi, CSNA has been actively nurturing young singing talent. Continuing this endeavour, Sukhmani, a singer trained by the Akademi, presented “Manzil Na De, Chirag Na De, Hausla To De”. Another promising singer, Jasreet, enthralled the audience with “Woh Kagaz Ki Kashti, Woh Baarish Ka Paani”. Mamta Gary Chawla, also trained by the Akademi, showcased her vocal talent with “Tum Ko Dekha To Yeh Khayal Aaya”.
Teenage singer Nancy, who has attracted considerable attention among music lovers in a short span of time, won appreciation with her rendition of Lata Mangeshkar’s famous ghazal “Rasm-e-Ulfat Ko Nibhayein To Nibhayein Kaise”.
The evening reached another musical high with performances by renowned music director, singer and radio-television artist R.D. Kailiey and Dr. Komal Chugh. Kaile opened his performance with Mirza Ghalib’s ghazal “Na Tha Kuchh To Khuda Tha”, followed by “Aate Aate Mera Naam Sa Reh Gaya”. He then joined Dr. Komal Chugh for the duets “Jab Se Hum Tabah Ho Gaye”, “Socha Nahin Achha Bura” and “Balle Balle”. Their chemistry and musical coordination added a special charm to the ghazals and Punjabi songs.
Responding to repeated requests from the audience, Kaile also performed “Chak Jigar Ke See Lete Hain”, “Chulhe Agg Na Ghade De Vich Paani” and “Chitthi Na Koi Sandesh”, further enriching the musical evening.
Mohinder Paul Gupta, Patron of Sargam Society, said that the society regularly organises theme-based programmes to mark special occasions and celebrate the contributions of eminent personalities. In the past, it has organised successful events on Baisakhi, a three-day Navratri celebration, Mirza Ghalib, former Prime Minister and poet Atal Bihari Vajpayee, and Punjabi poet Shiv Kumar Batalvi. He added that the society would continue to organise similar programmes to promote music, literature and cultural heritage.
Appreciating the initiative, Chief Guest Surinder Verma, President of the Citizen Awareness Group, said, “Music is a timeless bridge that connects hearts, emotions and generations. The melodious compositions of Lata Mangeshkar ji and the soul-stirring ghazals of Jagjit Singh ji are invaluable parts of India’s musical heritage. Such musical evenings not only pay tribute to these legendary artists but also keep their unforgettable legacy alive for younger generations. ‘Mehfil-e-Music’ is a beautiful initiative celebrating the richness of Indian music and the emotions that make it immortal.”
Dr. Sukhwinder Kaur Brar also appreciated the programme and highlighted the Akademi’s efforts to nurture emerging talent and refine the singing skills of its trainees. She informed the audience that students trained by CSNA had begun participating in major platforms, reflecting the growing opportunities available to young performers.
The singers were accompanied by an accomplished team of musicians, including Vewal Sharma on flute, Gurinder Singh Lovely on keyboard, Sarabjit Singh on tabla, Surinder Singh on guitar and Arun Mankotia on Octapad. Their melodious accompaniment enhanced the performances throughout the evening.
Bhupinder Singh Malik anchored the programme with his engaging presentation, creating a warm connection between the performers and the audience and ensuring a memorable musical experience for all present.
