Sahir-Kahaan Ho Tum? Jaipur - Some messages received

Huzur, you painted the canvas, the way you narrated…brilliant, mesmerising, top team ... will make it big... look forward for only with me.... one dinner/drink... कुछ पल...हमारे साथ भी!!! Besides Rs. 5 lakhs paid as Event Partner, I have made payment of Rs. 5 lakhs, from my personal account. Please accept this humble token of my appreciation. We wish you all best and hope that you will continue with your good work in the future. Sanjay Agarwal, Managing Director, AU Small Finance Bank Ltd.

A wonderful experience. We enjoyed the show thoroughly. Would like to support the cause. Kindly share the bank details. Manoj Agrawal, Head-Operations & Finance, Lok Capital

May I compliment you and your team for putting up a wondrous show? It is truly a marvelous addition to Jaipur’s annual creative offerings and expands its cultural space. We do look forward to your being here next year too. Salahuddin Ahmad, Retd. Chief Secretary, Government of Rajasthan

The show was outstanding and nothing less than Shahenshah-e-Ruumaaniyat: Hasrat Jaipuri. All the artists were truly mesmerizing. This show has brought in my love for lyricists. Will look forward to seeing the next in Jaipur. Rajeev Akar, Director, Raja Arts

Like always well drafted and curated, storytelling is a great art, it was a poetic story, gripping and captivating, mixture of tragedy, patriotism and hope like 1970-80 movies. You get the critics award of best producer, director and writer. Rajiv Arora, Co-Founder, Amrapali Jewels/Chairman, Jaipur Citizen Forum

The show was excellent, enjoyed thoroughly, the singers sang all the songs brilliantly, each one touched our hearts. Dr. Pramod Arya

Fantastic thoughtfully and well researched and entertaining show. Kudos to you and your team. It was great experience for me to travel to Jaipur exclusively to attend this show. I have been a Sahir fan for long number of years. However, through your show, I got to know him better. I would like to be associated with your Ibaadat venture. I live in Pune and would like to explore possibilities of having such a show in Pune. Pune audience would love it too. I can contribute my efforts to explore this possibility. Please let me know when you visit Pune next and how we can take this forward. Look forward to meeting you soon. Smita Atre, Chartered Accountant, Pune

What an incredible experience it was to be part of this evening! You and your team created magic, and the spell of Sahir’s poetry will stay with me for a long long time...A two-and-a-half-hour performance, without a break, felt like it had ended too soon. The depth of the research on the lyricist’s life and work, and the wonderful talent of the singers and presenters brought alive Sahir Ludhianvi like never before – and perhaps after! Congratulations on putting up a top-class performance! I am so privileged to have been in that audience. Dipa Singh Bagai, Advisor, National Health Authority, New Delhi

It was an excellent show, prepared and presented in such a fabulous manner. Really very touchy. You and your whole team in fact have become Gems of Jaipur. Gaurav Bajad, Jt. Secretary to Chief Minister, Government of Rajasthan

A very good program: well-organised and very well presented. All the singers were excellent and the presentation was very well synchronised. In fact, it was one of the best programmes that I and my wife have ever attended. Capt. Arvind Bajaj

This is the third programme of yours we attended. And really impressed by flawless presentation, on-time performance, your humour and wit in between and quality of your singers and presenters, including yourself, Mr Anand, Mrs Sangeeta Bedi and Mr Obaid. We can understand how much meticulous planning and n numbers of rehearsal, condensing the 12-hour script in 2.30 hours, research and really appreciate your efforts, time and pain. Shrikant Baldua, Chartered Accountant

Thanks to Dr. Dandiya for taking us to the show on Sahir, the most fascinating show produced by you. Dr. Jawahar S. Bapna

Fantastic. Kindly send me your bank details. Dr (Col) Manish Bassi (Veteran)

Sahir- Kahaan Ho Tum? was indeed a memorable and unforgettable event. Everything on the stage was perfect. We enjoyed every moment. P.N. Bhandari, PKA Advocates, Retd. Addl. Secretary, Government of Rajasthan

Missed JLF to see your show and have no regrets. What an idea... what a show? Ramesh Bhandari

One of the best programs I have attended. Ravindra Singh Bhandari, Microzone Communications Ltd.

We enjoyed it very much. This was very nicely programmed and presented. Selection of songs and story were beautifully done. It kept us very much engaged. Hari Narain Bhansali

A lovely music show. We do look forward to such soulful events. Thank you for a wonder show and a very enjoyable experience. Lata Bhargava

Thanks for such a nice evening, it was a fabulous show. We were just wondering what preparations and hard work the organizers had done. Prakash Chandra Bhargava

It was a rare and really novel experience for us to be a part of Ibaadat. An excellent concept so well researched and executed so beautifully with such an impressive anchoring. We would love to witness Ibaadat again and again. Dr. Usha Bhatia

Words cannot express the feelings that one experienced during your show...... therefore, I’ll let silence do the talking. Thank you so very much for the privilege of being invited. A big thanks to all the others who made this possible for us. Asha Bhatnagar

I was spellbound by the wonderful program. Congratulations to you and your entire team. Music is my constant passion. Jaipur had a rich tradition of Indian classical music. Your program is a new dimension for music lovers. Looking forward to many more delightful programs with your dedication I am sure the next program will be excellent too. Krishna Bhatnagar, Retd. IAS (1967 batch)

As always, it was an excellent and a very informative, entertaining and amazing show. Thanks for giving us this wonderful experience. We all are already looking forward to next year show. Your show also motivates young children like your nephew Akul, who is a tabla player himself and was mesmerized by this show and has been singing Sahir's songs after the show and hopefully, someone from this generation will carry on your legacy in future. Amit Bomb, Director, Rejoice Tours

It was an amazing show. I have never seen such a well-organized, biographical musical show. You deserve a lot of appreciation for "gagri mein saagar" covering such a long list of work done by Sahir, in just 2.5 hours that too by covering all aspects of his life. Great job. Amazing job done to get history of a poet who has no surviving close relatives. All of you were so good that you tied up all audience for such a long period. All your singers are superb, specially Ms. Joshi, Mr. Mishra and Mr. Anand. Of course Naveen and Deepshikha were also good. Ms. Joshi is absolutely superb. Over all, it was a superb, mesmerizing show. It will remain in our minds for years, till we get a better show than this. I have seen only this show in my life for 2.35 hours, without any intermission. Thanks for providing me an opportunity to witness this great show. Dr. Hari Om Bomb, Anaesthesist, Soni Hospital

A lovely program. Nav Ratan Bomb

It was really a wonderful programme and fabulous teamwork as well. Varun Bomb

It was lovely, very well produced and presented. It was a very enjoyable evening. I am glad I was able to attend it. Congratulations for assembling a group of fine artists. Dr. Shanti S. Chadha

Normally I would have sent my feedback in a couple of days but I was enthralled by tonight's presentation and have been moved to respond straight away. Kudos to you and the whole Ibaadat Team. What a phenomenal tribute to the genius of Sahir! You curated and showcased the poet's work brilliantly. It was topical and drew out the relevance of his evergreen lyrics to our current time superbly. It was a fantastic journey down memory lane. The only downside is we have to wait a full year to have you back!! Please convey my grateful thanks to the whole talented team for a memorable evening. Anju Chandna, Orthoptist

Exceptional knowledgeable and entertaining. Vinod Kumar Chopra

We were lucky to be invited for the programme. It was very well organised and no doubt lyrics of all songs took us to that era. Each and every aspect was beautifully presented. Indu Chopra

The whole programme was conducted with grace and great style, very artistically. Two and half hours were very enjoyable. The whole group had done his or her job very well. For us, music lovers, it was a big treat. Narrations, singing and shayari were all too good. Just shows how much effort has gone in for planning the whole programme. Thank you very much for all the effort and inviting us for this wonderful programme. Dr. Renu Consul, Sr. Ophthalmologist

Mesmerising. Thank you very much for your invite for this wonderful show. We thoroughly enjoyed the program, so beautifully and artistically done. All shayari and songs were a treat and singers and narrators were excellent. Soul touching. Can’t find such shayari now. We are ever so thankful that at this stage of our lives we went back and got so much more out of the lyrics. Thank you for giving us this privilege. Dr. Siddharth Consul, Sr. Opthalmalogist of Jaipur

Excellent presentation, once again. We were much engrossed. Two and half hour just flew by. Arun Daga

The evening of 24th January was a big treat. The Sahir Ludhianvi show was the result of your pain-taking exercise to bring the life of this man really alive before such a large audience. You and your team did wonders for giving this live program for 2 and half hours. It shows your immense and dedicated interest in this art. As an appreciation, I am enclosing herewith a cheque of Rs 10,000. This will encourage future activities. Dr. P.C.Dandiya, Distinguished Emeritus Professor & Advisor, SMS Medical College Jaipur

It was wonderful attending your show. You all are doing brilliantly. Please keep up the good work. Malini Dhir

It was a wonderful experience listening to all those gems of yesteryears. Grateful to you. Atul Kumar Garg, IAS Retd.

Thanks a lot for the magical experience. It was really marvelous, so beautifully narrated. The lovely singers and perfect management made it so memorable. Thanks a lot for such a wonderful show. We have no words to describe how awesome and entertaining the show was. Your research and team work is evident. Keep it up. Neel Garg, Retd. Dy. General Manager, United India Insurance Co. Ltd.

It was a very good performance. Never realized how good a shayar Sahir Ludhianvi was. Your story telling style with a mix and match of episodes and songs makes it so interesting Please keep up the good work. Anshuman Gupta, AM Global Textile Intertrade

Your skills are not only in research... it’s hugely in execution too. Supriya was just outstanding. Anand and Sarvesh are also too good. Icing... the humour you keep bringing in. Desh Gupta, Piramal Health, Jodhpur

A very well researched and beautifully conceptualised show on the great poet Sahir Ludhianvi....his life events, ideology, dreams and disappointments were portrayed nicely. The selection and rendition of his famous songs was outstanding. Overall a very captivating show which will be cherished for long. Devendra Bhushan Gupta, Chief Secretary, Govt. of Rajasthan

What an idea! unprecedented and flawless show. I was totally in awe of you ... your memory, passion, research etc etc! Your team was super fabulous as well. Wish I could understand every word of Urdu that was spoken ... left me inspired to learn some Urdu!! Blessed to have you in our life. Neeta Gupta, Director, Multiflex, Nagpur

Your program was fantastic. We can't understand how the time of two and half hours passed. Pawan Kumar Gupta

Since missed it in Mumbai, came specially to zjaipur for this show. Didn’t even want to close my eyelids even once for the fear of losing out on some part of the story. Just awesome. Sangeetaji and you make a great pair. Your singers are just too good. Your format of storytelling as if in a drawing room with all of us is too enchanting. Prachi Gupta, Professor, ITM School of Management, Navi Mumbai

Programme bahut hi acha Hua, humne bahut enjoy kiya, thanks humko invite karne ke liye. Rekha Gupta

It was an absolutely wonderful experience, and everyone who came for the show felt and expressed as much. One more feather in your, and your team's already feather-laden caps. What a great effort in researching and then presenting the show in the form it was. Simply superb. Very well done. You should have had Watan ki Abroo Khatrey Mein Hain - from the 1962 war and its verses on national unity. The audience should know he wrote for such causes and so powerfully and Khudaaye bartaar teree jamin par (from Taj Mahal) -conveying his strong feelings against war, futlitiy of war and its impact on women in particular, expressed in this nazm and others which were covered in your presentation. I love the ever-rousing and wonderful rendition of Jana Gana Mana by the cast and audience. All our friends were very, very impressed with the program and had only good words to say about it. Some others, who were not on the invite list, expressed a very keen desire to be invited to the next event…all senior, retired bureaucrats. Rajiv Gupta

Just no words to describe the wonderful evening. Such enthusiasm for a program in Jaipur is normally not experienced....and the keenness with which people who have seen an earlier program is very encouraging and the words of praise from first timers is a pat on the back of Team Ibaadat. No doubt the changes you have made after your Delhi show have made a marked difference to the pace of the narrative. The lighting was perfect. The slides giving information of the films from which the songs were sung added a lot to the song, because of the association. All in all, must say it was perfect. I enjoyed it the second time around. Our best wishes to all in Team Ibaadat, especially Sangeeta and Naveen who are your pillars as well as all the singers Supriya (who is a star no doubt), Sarvesh, the ever smiling Anand, Deepshikha, Obaid and all the people behind the scenes for putting up such a grand event. Sangeeta Gupta (Daughter of music director Madan Mohan)

At this age, you are so full of energy. So may I suggest you do Part 2 after each show from 9.30 pm to midnight to go on with your stories, shers and songs? I bet most of your audience will stay back. Praying for your long healthy life. Dr. Daulat Haldea, USA

It was a well-researched work put into a very enthralling performance. My friends and colleagues who attended the same were full of praise for this performance. Each and every one on stage were exemplary in their performance. Rukmani Haldea, Retd. IAS

It was an excellent show as always. We were very much looking forward to witness this show ever since we heard of it. Your narratives in the show reflected deep down research on the life of this great lyricist. The selection and rendition of songs was fantastic. The show just enthralled us and took us down the memory lane to the golden era of 60s and 70s. All the singers and narrators are worthy of appreciation. Our congratulations to you. Ashok (and Neeru) Jain, Retd. Chief Secretary, Government of Rajasthan

A wonderful team to work with!! It has indeed been a memorable event!! Sharing stage with Supriya ji, Sarveshji, Naveen Sir and Anandji was immensely delightful. Thank you Prithvi Sir, Naveen Sir and Sangeeta ma'am for giving me this opportunity For 3 years!! Special Thanks to Sangeeta madam (daughter of the legendary Madan Mohan)! Congratulations for the incredibly successful Sahir Show in Jaipur!! Deepshikha Jain, Singer

Excellent show. Dr. Pradeep Jain

The show was really very good. Poonam Chand Rawanka (Jain), JKD Group

Thanks a lot for giving this show to all of us and whole Jaipur, kudos for the towering efforts you all put in. The show was excellent and we enjoyed a lot. Salute to the hard work dedication, research and superb script of the show. The quality, content and presentation is superlative and each time we see it is always on the fresher side. Satish Jain, Superintending Engineer, PHED, Government of Rajasthan

Prithviji...a marvellous show. Have seen all and each one looks perfect. Satyendra Jain, Ex Indian Railways

Sangeeta Bedi!!! Oh my god - I've nursed a planet-sized crush on her for thirty years now!!! Anirban Roy Choudhury on Facebook post of Pavan Jha, Pavan Jha

It was a wonderful evening which can only be come out after put in vigorous efforts. Arvind Jhalani

It was really a great pleasure to be again part of this programme. The best part is your research about Sahir, time and overall management of the programme. Selection of venue was also best this time in comparison to previous programme. Kamesh Joshi, Chartered Accountant, R.Seth & Co.

What an amazing programme…we all enjoyed thoroughly. Very well organized We loved each bit of it. Ruchie Kakkar

The program was just amazing. Worth the long wait. It was an amazing experience again. As usual. ye dil maange more.... two and half hours just seemed some moments. It would be an honour to have you for tea/dinner/drinks. Amiya Kala

We were pleased to see the fabulous show organised by you, everybody enjoyed last night, superb show! Kishore Kala

Thank you so much for such a wonderful program. Enjoyed a lot. Rajesh Kala

It was a treat to the soul. Ravi Kamra

Thank you for making us a part of the mesmerising program. Not only have we enjoyed a marvellous journey of Sahir the poet but also the flawless manner in which Ibaadat put up the program. You were seasoned as a singer and compere, as was everyone on stage specially Sangeeta Bedi. Your group is aptly named Ibaadat-without that emotion such a program wouldn’t be possible. Geetika Kapoor

We never saw, or even imagined that it will be such a wonderful 2.5-hour non-stop flawless program. The orchestra with songs was not karaoke but sounded as original. The research and narration was so fantastic. It was followed by every artist’s entry at the right point. The best part was Naveen’s entry as Gurudutt with ‘ye dunia’. We have never seen such presentation containing all ingredients-music, life history of the great artist, his love life, his contributions to film industry and everything. Prithvi was magnificent in giving narration and so was the lady. Singers presented the songs in true concepts of originals. Wish we get some more opportunity to see your other shows. We want to make a very small contribution-so please guide us about the procedure- NEFT will be preferable. Amar Singh Kapur, Ex Chief Engineer, Rajasthan State Electricity Board

It was mesmerizing. We were in a trance. Thanks for taking us on this journey. Kabhi Kabhi mere dil mein yeh khayal aataa hai ke aap khud ek Ibaadat ho. Atul Kapur, Director, The Kapur Press

I don't have words to convey the wonderful and beautiful Ibaadat program we saw and heard. I enjoyed every bit of it. The entire troupe was awesome. I wish I could watch more of these programs. God bless you for bringing so much joy in my life. Veena Kapur

After 2 weeks of witnessing an extra ordinary edition of ' Sahir Kanhan ho Tum', I am still under a hangover. We are lucky to have witnessed all the 3 shows staged by Ibaadat Foundation at Jaipur. I can vouch with all my conviction that with each new production, the level of the bar gets raised by a few notches. I have always believed that the organisation which competes with its own self always remains ahead of external competition. Please accept my grateful thanks and compliments to all the trustees and performers. Within my available resources in my retired life, I shall continue to make whatever humble contribution I shall be able make. Ratnesh P. Kashyap, Managing Director, SRSL International Pvt. Ltd.

It was a beautifully orchestrated event. Thoroughly enjoyed it. Manish (and Ritika) Kasliwal

A truly amazing program put forth by your team. My wife and I thoroughly enjoyed. Sahir is a collossus among lyricists undoubtedly and an ode to him as presented by you was a fitting remembrance. I am arranging to send a small token separately. Regards Payonidhi Kasliwal, Managing Director, Kamal Autofinance Ltd.

Hats off to you. Perfection to the core by ‘amateurs’. Time you started making feature films. Kamlesh Khandelwal

All of us including all the persons whose names I had suggested for the pass and who had attended the program have appreciated the show. Santosh Kumar Khandelwal

A wonderful experience…amazing, awesome, incredible! Hats off to you for the research that you did and shared with us so many things about Sahir which we would have never got to know. This was a real tribute to the legend. The singers were excellent and so were the narrators. We were completely mesmerised. Anju Khanna

Thank you all for an exotic, unique and intoxicating evening with Sahir Ludhianvi!! You, with your managerial skills, transported the connoisseurs of poetry, music, and shaayari into seventh heaven! You managed to inter weave his whole life interspersed with his songs with such finesse and class and skill!!! Hats off to you and every member of Ibaadat!!! I am indebted to you all for this heart-warming musical and soulful experience. Prabha Kishore

Let me begin with thanking you for making me a part of Sahir show. It was an amazing experience. I found myself crying at a point, as one song brought back my grandfather's memories. I went through the phase of falling in love and being heartbroken with Sahir, as you guys narrated. I came back home smiling. Nandita Kodesia, Ex Zee News Anchor, New Delhi

It was a great pleasure watching 'Sahir- Kahan Ho Tum?'. Like the other shows on Majrooh Sultanpuri and Hasrat Jaipuri that we have seen, this was another superb performance. Sahir's life and work was beautifully brought out in the conversations. His poetry came alive the way it was recited and sung by the artistes. It was a great evening to cherish. I have already made a small contribution of Rs 5000/- towards your great efforts to revive poetry. Arun Kumar, Retd. Chief Secretary, Government of Rajasthan

The program was organised very well. Performance of the duet songs was very nice. R.C. Lakhotia, Chartered Accountant

This is my third consecutive year of attending your show in Jaipur and I just have to say that - each one of your show was better than the last one. I would like to donate for your mission, please do share your bank details. Dipti Lodha, Dean Placements & Training, Dean Alumni & Corporate Relations, Poornima Group

This was my second program and I felt great both the times. Rendering and subject material is superb. Most of the times we remember and try to recite the songs but are definitely unaware of the creator of the song. It is great service to the literary world and my sadhuwad to the organizers. I noticed from the list of Donors three categories. I am keen to understand criteria for becoming regular donor for this noble cause. Keshari Nandan Luhariwala, Ex Country Head and President, Pan Century Edible Oil Refinery, Malaysia

Brilliant show! what an effort and meticulous detailing and song selection!! Ajay Malik

I sincerely wish to extend my heartfelt thanks to you for such a wonderful and well researched program on the finest poet and writer 'Sahir'. J.K. Mandhana, Director, Techno Links

An excellent presentation covering all aspect/achievements of Sahir incorporating excellent music and poetry of Sahir. An absolutely different experience. Thanks for such nicely tailored programme. Brij Behari Mathur

My wife and I very much enjoyed the Sahir show. The musical drama was well conceived and executed and the songs were beautifully sung. Prithvi jee, I had seen you earlier many times on business channels on TV. This musical side of your personality was a revelation. Pradeep Shanker Mathur

Nice program, we enjoyed. Satya Narain Mathur

The show was fantastic was well-researched, well presented and kept us spellbound. It is commendable that a group of non-professionals could produce this kind of show. I would like to contribute to the Ibaadat foundation Dr. Shanti C. Mathur, Retd. Prof. & Head, SMS Medical College and Hospital

The show and stars were wonderful like always. Urvashi Singh Meena, Associate, State Bank of India

The show was overwhelming as well as an eye-opener enabling people like us to peep inside a shayar’s mind and heart. Pradeep Mehra

It was a great show. The presentation and the performances were excellent. Kiron Mehrotra

Par excellence program. Enjoyed thoroughly. Aruna Mehta

It was an off the cuff idea to drive down from Gurgaon for your show and it turned out to be well worth it. We really enjoyed the whole show. Our compliments on a very professionally organized show, the singers were outstanding and the musical score was magnificent done. We would be open to a donation. Dr. Monik Mehta, Chief of Cardiology, Columbia Asia Hospital-Gurgaon

The event was great and very well done. Keep up the good work! Pradeep S. Mehta, Secretary General, Cuts International

All I can say is it is a much awaited program and in my music lovers circle very well talked about...keep the Ibaadat mission and enthusiasm flying high. Ranju Mehta, Vice Principal, Kanoria College

Wonderful...Wonderful...Wonderful. Incidentally, it happens to be our 39th marriage anniversary today and it could not have been better way except to spend evening with great personalities like you all. It was 6.30pm when I put phone in silent Mode but it appeared as if clock jumped to 9.00 pm in no time. Excellent team work, keep it up. Ajay Mishra

It was pleasure to meet you before the start of the programme. Besides my wife and myself our friends the Gamis were highly impressed & asked me to convey to you their special thanks for the invitation and that they enjoyed the show. Immensely. The show simply summed up in one word, was fabulous. The salient points I noticed are: 1. Jaipur is very lax in time keeping but you started in time which is a big positive. 2. The volume control was just perfect. Your team who control the sound deserve high compliments. I have stopped going to all film music events in Jaipur as the sound is a very high decibel of 120. Even if one requests to tone down the volume, the sound recording technicians or the performing artists do not heed it. 3. Selection of songs did full justice to Sahir and his repertoire. 4. Excellent presentation all round, there was no wastage of time or gap anywhere. The continuity was very noticeable. 5. Sangeeta Bedi was marvellous as the anchor besides yourself. Among the singers Supriya Joshi and Anand Bahal were outstanding. Supriya has a mellifluous voice. I have good knowledge of classical music, so I know what happens if a singer goes into high pitch (tar saptak) they lose rhythm and go out of tune (besura) but she was in sync throughout. Both these singers had a very pleasant voice and the modulation was too good. Shirish Mody

Thanks for a wonderful evening. A journey through the glorious melodies musical era of our youth days. Jagadish C. Mohanty, Addl. Chief Secretary, Govt. of Rajashtan

Accolades to you. My colleagues/clients told me that the function went off very well. Ravindra Muhnot, Advisor, Wonder Cement Ltd.

The program was as intense as Sahir’s shaayari and as heart touching as his heart breaks. Thanks for setting up this wonderful program. I would like to make a donation. Sushil Muhnot, Retd. MD, Bank of Maharshtra

The program was totally mesmerizing...well researched...compactly edited...nostalgic evergreen songs. Purnima Mundel

We thoroughly enjoyed the Sahir Ludhianvi program you so well researched and presented. to us. We especially liked the background on each song and how Sahir's life influenced his music. Vandana Singh Nadgar, Publisher of Rajasthani Music

Enriching, enchanting, exhilarating!!! What a powerful opening...so well rendered by Naveen. Congratulations for the absolutely outstanding show on Sahir in Jaipur last week. It was - by some distance - the greatest lyrico-musical experience I have ever had [the next being Rooh E Majrooh]! Ibaadat surpassed even its own lofty standards maintained ever since its inception. As I was away in UK during the Delhi show, I made it a point to travel to Jaipur just for this program...and am I glad!! To begin with, the opening sequence from Pyaasa was electrifying. It was brilliantly conceived & executed, with Naveen's superb rendition. Wow, wow, wow!! The choice of songs (for full rendering) was impeccable. Supriya and Anand were outstanding as usual; the others (especially Naveen) also did a great job. Haider Ali's orchestration was simply fabulous! Last, but certainly not the least, was the brilliant, flawless compering by Sangeeta. I must specially mention her recitation of Do Boonden Saawan Ki, which had a lyrical pathos only she can bring out. And her description of Pyaasa and Sahir's contribution to it came straight from the heart. Also, her singing of the mukhda of a couple of songs (including Tum Apna Ranj O Gham) was quite a revelation...what a multifaceted bundle of talent she is! As the Chairman of Ibaadat and coordinator of this event, you deserve full credit for doing such a splendid job, and extracting the very best from the full cast and crew. I sincerely wish the very best to your entire team - may you rise to even greater heights and bring more joy to thousands of musical-poetry lovers in India and beyond. Prithvi, I must add a few more lines to my observations on the Sahir program in Jaipur: To bring out - so beautifully & effectively - the entire range of complexities of Sahir's personality and relationships through his poetry, brilliantly woven around your conversation, was indeed a commendable task. The whole program was conceived and presented in such an interesting manner that there wasn't a dull moment for a single second. The entire audience in the jam-packed auditorium, comprising passionate lovers of poetry & music, were glued to their seats for 2.5 hours, and left craving for more. Heady stuff, Prithvi, hats off to you and your entire team! Pradip Narain, Director, Institute of Maths & Economics, New Delhi

Thanks a lot for a wonderful programme. It was very well arranged and songs collection was superb. It was like we are living with Sahir. Paramod Palawat

It was an excellent show I have ever seen. The presentations were fantastic. Your style was very very good, the way you covered Sahir Ludhianvi is amazing. After attending your show, now I am creating the songs library of Sahir. Pankaj Parashar, Customer Services Account Manager, Reliance Communications Ltd.

It was really a wonderful show! Just too good. Proud of you and your colleagues on the Foundation. I want to transfer a humble contribution to Ibaadat. Bharat Patni

It was a once in lifetime experience for me! Hats off to your meticulous research! The presentation, selection of songs, singers, music that you had arranged- everything was flawless. Dr. Nidhi Patni, Cancer Specialist, Bhagwan Mahaveer Cancer Hospital

The show was simply marvelous. I loved the presentation, music and songs. The efforts of your entire team was visible. Laxmi Purohit, Retd. from CAG Office

A wonderful evening. It was like going down the memory lane. Dr. Ravindra Nath Purohit

Thank you so much for lovely program, it is one good program which we look forward to, it was again very well organized. Hari Singh Rajawat

It was a very memorable event, enjoyed every bit of it. It was brilliant and one of the most enjoyable programmes I have ever attended. The choreography was perfect and every single song/shayari was perfect…Enjoyed it immensely and thank you so much for organising it. Vimala Ramachandran

A wonderfully curated show. The jam packed hall says it all. Keep it up!!! Ramakrishna

Enjoyed a lovely evening filled with memories of Sahir. Dr. Alaka Rao, Retd. Prof. & Head, SMS Medical College Jaipur

The programme was superb, outstanding, beautifully presented, very well researched and above all very enjoying. Everything was perfect. However, in the Indian context, I suggest the following : 1. Late comers are a source of disturbance and annoying to the other viewers. It should be mentioned on cards gates will be closed sharp at 1830 hrs. If you can't make it to the venue by 1820 hrs, please don’t come for the programme, as no entry will be permitted after 1830. 4. Before starting the programme, make number of announcement to switch off mobiles. Bad habits die hard some people just don't switch off the mobile and keep talking loudly during the programme. Announcement be made at the beginning of the programme that if any mobile is not switched off and found to be in conversation, then he may be asked to leave the hall. So please make sure your mobiles are off or silent mode. Wg. Cdr. Tejendra Singh Rathore

I have been attending your shows and it is just getting better with time. The performance of the artists is tremendously commendable and I regard it as the finest of live shows that I have come across in my life. I wish the whole team with best of wishes for keeping up the excellent performance and we hope to have wonderful opportunity to see the show with all the grandeur. Happy and honored to be part of the show. Kunal Rawat, Advocate, High Court

कल की संध्या बहुत आनंदमय रही। segmentation कर के साहिर के व्यक्तित्व के कहानी रचना सटीक व रोचक थी। कुछ गाने बिना accompaniment के, कुछ में बहुत हल्का व कुछ में सामान्य accompaniment से विविधता के साथ बढिया effect आया। स्नेह एवं शुभकामनाओं सहित। Prajesh Rawat, Director, Rawatsons, Kolkata

Sahir himself would have been totally delighted if he was in the audience. The show was an essence of him. Long live Ibaadat. Ravindra Kumar Saha, G.M. Industrial Corporation, Agra

Dear Prithvi, enchanting, riveting, and exemplary effort, Rajiv Sahai, Retd. IRS

Yaar maza aa gaya. Rajan Kumar Sanghi, Director, Shri Krsna Urja Projects Pvt.Ltd.

Thank you for staging such a wonderful show. I had studied Sahir in college, and despite my poor knowledge of Hindi/Urdu, I admired him a lot. I missed all your previous Sahir shows, and am so glad I finally caught this one. It was flawless! Your stagecraft is professional, and your singers are outstanding. Your script, and the structure you give the program, enhances the songs like blue velvet to gemstones. Partha and Chitra Sarkar, New Delhi

The show was very well planned and presented. Praveena Sethi

Thank you for inviting us to the show. In last 20 years, for the first time, went up to the balcony just because didn't want to miss the show. Please put up a screen on top wall for balcony audiences to enjoy a show. The show was impeccable and impressive. I love the format of your presentation. I find it unique and engrossing. It keeps the audience glued to seats. Of course, presentation and singing by everyone, especially by Supriya were impressive and haunting. Keep the journey with vigour and commitment. B. L. Sharma I.A.S. (Retd.)

It was a life-time experience to witness your programme. The presentation was excellent and state-of-the-art. I also enjoyed your last programme on Hasrat Jaipuri sahib. Thanks for making us a part of this wonderful evening. Yes I also want to contribute to this cause. Brij B. Sharma

What an amazing show. So delightful. Don't know what was the distinguishing factor but in every song performed, the lyrics got showcased and celebrated like never before. The effort put in was so well translated into the treat that was the show last night. Sangeeta ji was a sweet surprise when she sang. Supriya ji was also adding so much to the show. Was so worth taking a flight to Jaipur. Three cheers to you Prithvi ji. Dr. Deepa Sharma, Director, Inclusive IndiaHR, Mumbai

Extremely grateful to you for organising the passes for us. The program was par excellence…concept, execution and the ambience - created a memorable experience for us that we will cherish for a long time. Enjoyed the program immensely...haven't attended a better program. My friend and I are so gratefully thankful to you for making it possible. As music lovers we look forward to more such programs in Delhi as well. Please share bank details so we can do the donation. Best, Manpreet Sharma, Director, Evolve, Delhi

It was a great treat that encapsulated every aspect. Enlightening entertaining, enthralling. Music, poetry, drama and above all the delivery of selected pieces of Sahir’s shayari all came out so perfectly. Prithvi, Naveen Sangeeta and all singers were superb. Well-scripted with extempore deliverance I mean every part at its zenith. My gratitude and feelings to the organisers. Shravan Kumar Sharma (Jangid), Sikar, Retd. Chief Engineer, PHED, Government of Rajasthan

कल साय: 6:30 से 9:00 बजे साहिर लुधियानवी फ़िल्मी गीतकारकी जीवन की घटनाओं व उसके गीत Birla auditorium में सुने. जयपुर, दिल्ली व मुंबई के गायक व कलाकार थे. जिसमें बताया कि साहिर 59 की आयु में ही heart attack से गुज़र गए. उन्होंने जो बाते तथ्यपूर्ण रूप से बताई, मुझे प्राय सारी बातें याद थी. जिस प्रकार हिंदी साहित्य में आचार्य चतुरसेन शास्री थे, उसी प्रकार फिल्मी दुनिया के गीतकारों में साहिर थे. गहरी सोच, वास्तविक संवेदनशील व भाषा पर command गजब का था. दार्शनिक चिंतक व सृजनशील था. उसने नारी अत्याचार, प्रकृति पर, वियोग व संजोग, श्रृंगार पर ग़ज़ब लिखा. मुंबई की गायिका गीता लता से कम नहीं थीं. गायक भी श्रेष्ठ थे. पर मुझे डर था वही हुआ. सन 1962 के चीनी आक्रमण पर साहिर ने “वतन की आबरू खतरे में है” जो जोशीले गीत लिखे, मैं उन्हें सुनना चाहता था मगर इन दोनों गीतों की चर्चा नहीं हुई. ‘बरसात की रात’ फिल्म की कव्वाली का वह अंश सुनाया. कहते हैं कि जब मैं पीता हूँ तो कहते हैं मरना होगा, जब मैं मरता हूँ तो कहते है कि जीना होगा. संसार का शास्वत सत्य कह गया. अमृता प्रीतम का साहिर के प्रति लगाव. साहिर के पिये हुए सिगरेट के टुकड़ों को पी पी कर अमृता प्रीतम भी सिगरेट की अभ्यस्त हो गयीं. इसी प्रकार जिस गायिका को साहिर से प्रेम था. उस से प्रेम न कर पाने के कारण साहिर ने ”चलो इस बार फिर से अजनबी बन जाए हम दोनों” गाना भी साहिर की आवाज में सुनाया गया. “कुदरत ने तो बख्शी थी हमें एक ही धरती हमने कहीं भारत कहीं इरान बनाया”. “तुम अगर मुझको न चाहो तो कोई बात नहीं तुम किसी गैर को चाहोगी तो मुश्किल होगी” गीत साहिर का लिखा हुआ है. गायक मुकेश ही अपनी गम्भीर और दुखी आवाज में हमें एहसास कराता है. ये संगीतकार भी गजब के हैं. इन में गज़ब की सोचने की शक्ती है. ये गीत व परिस्थिति से तय करते हैं कि कौन सा गाना किस गायक से गवाना है ये आवाज़ की परख रखते हैं लता, आशा, मुबारक बेग़म, खनकती वाली आवाज़ को भूल जाता हूँ. इसी प्रकार गायकों की आवाज़ भी गज़ब की है. रफ़ी, मुकेश, मन्ना डे, किशोर कुमार, एस. डी. बर्मन, हेमंत दा आदि का उपयुक्त चयन करते हैं. भावना को शब्दों की आम व्यक्ति गीतकार साकार करता है तो अपनी आवाज से गायक उस भावना को पूर्ण रूप देता है तो संगीतकार धुन तैयार करता है. सारे काम प्रकृति करवाती है. अमृता प्रीतम स्वयं चिन्तनशील थीं इसी लिए साहिर के उक्त गुणों पर मुघ्द हो गयीं. हेमा मालिनी साहिर पर मुग्ध नहीं हो सकती हालाँकि आयु में व शक्ल में विसंगता थी. मगर समकालीन होते तो भी नहीं. शारीरिक रूप से बलवान सुन्दर अभिनेता धर्मेंद्र को ही पसंद किया. प्रकृति का ही परिणाम रहा. इसी प्रकार समाज में लोगो के सम्बन्ध उनकी प्रकृति के अनुसार ही बनते है. आज फिल्मों में करोड़ों अरबों रुपए लगाने वाले कविताओं को थोड़े ही काम में लेते हैं. कला का पारखी कला को ही पसंद करेगा, राजनीती को नहीं. साहिर में प्रेम की गजब इच्छा थी. मगर उसने स्वयं को प्रेम में नहीं डुबोया. यदि अमृता प्रीतम या उस गायिका से शादी कर लेता तो फिर असंतुष्टता नहीं रहती. इसलिए वह गज़ब का विचारक व गीतकार बना. S.Sharma, Retd Police Officer, Sikar

It was a wonderful and nostalgic experience. Thank you for inviting and looking forward to many more of such events based on the life and songs of some great song writers who make one think and feel at the same time. Please keep it up. When I have some funds I would like to make a donation. Prahlad Singh Shekhawat

At the outset I must compliment you for the innovative and wonderful programs you have been organising. I have seen your two previous programs also. Sahir Ludhianvi was the third one. Prof. (Dr). Yogesh Shukla, Managing Director, Rajasthan Nursing Home & Eye Centre, Retd. Eye Surgeon, SMS

The evening was truly enthralling ...many congrats to you and your team. We would like to contribute. Abhimanyu (and Sanjivani) Singh, Retd. IAS

Excellent program. Very well scripted and deeply researched. Enjoyed thoroughly. Thank you for making us a part of it. Hukum Singh, TC Tippler's Club

Thank you, loved every moment of the musical show! Kesari Singh

You would be glad to know that Daulat and I attended the same school and also have common interest in music. The event held by Ibaadat on Sahir Ludhianvi was well researched and extremely well conducted. I would be interested in making my contribution as a member or even otherwise. Please let me know the details. Mahendra Singh, Sr. Partner, PKA Advocates

I am very grateful to the you and the Ibaadat team for the excellent show on Sahir Ludhianvi. To compress his huge volume of work into a show that is only two and a half hours is no mean feat. It was indeed a Herculean task that you accomplished with aplomb. It was a world-class performance and touched newer heights of excellence in terms of the treatment of Sahir's poetry in content as well as the conceptualization and composition of the presentation. More power to team Ibaadat. Jeete rahiye! I would be happy to send in a small contribution as a token of my appreciation to team Ibaadat. Please furnish bank details. Maj. Dr. Meeta Singh

Thanks a lot for managing such a musical good show and making me to enjoy it. Savita Singh

It was an outstanding performance! Many thanks for giving Sudhir and I opportunity to watch it. Ajay Sinha

It was a wonderful presentation. Remarkable. Congratulations to you and the team once again for presenting a wonderfully researched program. Manoj Shrimali

The program was stunning and heart-warming. Loved it. Amazing how you had woven Sahir's story with his music. Great effort and a wonderful team of performers and others. Congratulations on the show and the organization of it. I suggest that people at the door ask/ ensure the guests to switch off the phones and have signs at the doors too. People who come later do not listen to the switch off phones announcement and we have plenty of people with phones on. I understand that the aspects I am talking about are cultural or behavioural in nature, but they do impact the enjoyment of the performance. We can try and must try and slowly change these patterns, I believe, by setting an example -- with love and caring. Ruchir Sodhani

It was too good a programme! Cannot see any scope for improvement. Vineeta Somani, Owner, School of Bakery & Culinary

It was a great programme Well designed and could reach to us as if Sahir is with us. Ashok Taksali

Excellent show! Hats off to you guys. Specially Prithvi for all the research and conceptualisaton. Kavitha Thapan, Gurgaon

How does one describe the program and what you, Naveen and Sangeeta put together and delivered? It is not a matter of words…one can only experience it. Then one is intoxicated to the core of the soul. Finally, one is left speechless. The amount of time you guys have spent in researching the life of Sahir, putting it into a script, weaving his songs at the right time. And finally the seamless delivery. I can only imagine the amount of time and effort that went into creating this production. And Sangeeta said you guys are amateurs! That’s an understatement. You guys would put professionals to shame. I think the word that summarises my emotions would be inspired… inspired by the great artist that is Sahir, inspired by the team that put up this show, inspired by the human spirit that seeks excellence. Kavitha and I thank you from the depths of my heart. Sangeeta…aap toh boltay hain toh bhi sangeet banta hai. Naam main bhi Sangeet, Kaam main bhi Sangeet. Rahul Thapan, Director, Corporate Consulting Pvt.Ltd., Gurgaon

It has been my first experience with Ibaadat and I enjoyed a lot the entire play along with songs. Look forward to have more and more experience with such kind of programs. Sonali Tiwari, CRO, Ashiana Housing Ltd.

I had a most wonderful time with your performance on Sahir. Please keep up the wonderful endeavor. Rajendra Tripathi

Thanks is a small word to express gratitude for a mesmerizing show. Kudos to the team. Ritu Uberoi, Fashion Designer, Rituambe

Very thankful to you for the program. It was very nice. S. N. Vijayvargia

I simply cannot tell you how amazing the show was. Especially for someone like me who was born in the 70s and never lived through the era of all the greats of Hindi music and poetry. Till I experienced your show, Sahir was just a great Indian lyricist for me. That's all. I had absolutely no idea of the man in flesh and blood, his life, context of his haunting poetry, his collaborations and the flavor of the times when he peaked in Hindi cinema. One thing I took back from the show, which will be a permanent change for me, is that the next time I hear a Rafi, Kishore, Talat, Pancham, SD song, or for that matter, a Rajesh Khanna or Dev Anand hit, I'm always going to look for the composer/ poet! I've been reawakened to genius that inspires such eloquent compilation of words. Thank you and your team@ Ibaadat for that. My compliments to the entire team, who undoubtedly love music and poetry. It was evident in the ease in which each of you spoke about Sahir and his poetry. The singers were just too good and did more than justice to the original scores. I experienced a pleasant afterglow throughout the weekend, while I spent some hours listening to best songs of the 50s-70s, arguably, the period when Indian cinematic music and lyrics was at its zenith. At least when it came to meaning, virtue and humanism in general. Thank you and please keep me posted on your future programs. Also, do let me know if I can help in any way. And I would love to meet you too when you're in Jaipur next. Do let me know. I wouldn't mind being a small part of your shows too, if I am able to find the time and you find me up to the mark! Dr. Preetam B. Yashvant, Commissioner-Commercial Taxes Department, Govt. of Rajasthan