Amaaaaazing show. Enjoyed the music and performances immensely. And as always, your singing was sensational... so much melody and emotion. Amazed at the number of amazing songs he wrote.
Lavanya Agarwal
Such a mesmerising evening. The format of the show was extremely innovative and engaging. Each of the singers was excellent and there were very interesting anecdotes woven along with the melodious songs. May Ibaadat Foundation continue to thrive under your able leadership.
Smita Aggarwal, Director-Investments, Omidyar Network
The programme was par excellence. Mohammed Farooq Alvi, Project Management Consultants
The show was excellent and it was very nicely done.
Shyam Anand, Epsilon Eye Care
I can't tell you how much I enjoyed that evening. It was so beautifully done. I am touched.
Vageeswari Ananth
I was privileged to attend a show hosted by Ibaadat Foundation to honour the great Lyricist Rajinder Krishan. Coming out, at the end of the show, I was simply overwhelmed with emotions and for a couple of minutes couldn't find words to speak, with my friends. It was an outstanding show. Right from the conceptualisation to planning to execution- was an awesome presentation and the continuity was amazing, devoid of a single dull moment. The song selection was too good- covered the entire gamut of Rajinder Krishan's work. The singers were professionals and did their job to perfection.
Dilip Apte
It was a wonderful evening for us and we thoroughly enjoyed. Amazing singers, very well-choreographed and rehearsed. Quite thoughtful of inviting people who are still relevant to the lyricist. It was like why it ended so soon. Frankly, I do not have anything to add further. Even the venue was quite good. It does make lot of difference. Will send my donation.
Prakash Bagla, Vice President, Motilal Oswal Private Equity Advisors Pvt. Ltd.
First of all, I am really indebted to get an opportunity to attend such a marvellous and well organised show. Not a single moment we could realise that we are in the show, but, we were floating on the clouds, for 150 minutes, and before we could realise, we have reached Heaven, the show was over. What an amazing experience for us. The show started on time and ended on time, the discipline, which we always appreciate. The narration of RK's life with soft truth of his life fascinated us. The entire crew and cast, was very knowledgeable. Many facts we never knew before, about RK, the Legend!!! All singers were incomparable, knew their singing very well, very soothing and real like!!! Music support and timings were excellent. The selection of songs was carefully done to entertain fully. The full bunch of music lovers listened with pin drop silence. Your all efforts are appreciated, in high esteem. We sincerely thank to all those who contributed, directly or indirectly. In short, the show deserves ten on ten. Mohan Bhambhani & Dr.Barkha Bhambhani/S.K.Pali/Naveen Panda
It was my good fortune to attend Daastaan-e-Rajinder Krishan. Being an ardent music lover, I attend most of the music programmes held in Mumbai from time to time. Undoubtedly, this was one of the best music programmes I have attended in recent times. Truly, every part of the programme was precisely planned and rehearsed. The script, selection of singers, research, background music etc. etc. were impeccable!! I congratulate you and the entire team of Ibaadat Foundation for presenting this unforgettable experience. Devendra Bhandari, Executive Director, Stakeholders Empowerment Services
Congratulations! Phenomenal…fantastic…out of this world…what great research and script. Never seen anything like this before! The show was extremely well conceived and conducted with great sincerity. Since I have been doing nostalgic music concerts since 1997 I appreciate the work greatly. Keep up the good work.
Rinki Roy Bhattacharya (daughter of Bimal Roy)
Thanks a lot for yesterday's lovely programme.
Dr. Bharat Bhatt & Dr. Dipika Bhatt
The singers were stupendous. And the format is excellent.
Nandan Chakraborty, Managing Director-Institutional Equity Research, Axis Capital Ltd.
The program was too good. well planned and good selection of songs. Sending 21000/- as token as my contribution for a novel concept...
Amitabh Chaturvedi, Managing Director, Essel Finance Management LLP
My dad really enjoyed the show! Congratulations. Really well done. Great concept, well executed, great singers! He really appreciated the compere too. Manish Chokhani, Chairman, TPG Growth India Ltd.
Excellent program. Class apart. Big congrats and hearty thanks. R. K. Das, Country Head-MSME Sector Development, Small Industries Development Bank of India
Great show. Your programs are improving every time. This time the auditorium and the sound were excellent. We wish all future programs are held in this auditorium only. You and your team is doing a commendable job. Kudos to you all for all your dedication.
Anil Dave
You created a phenomenal package.. End to end, precise research and presented with precision .... Thanks even to Sangeeta Guptaji and Rajesh Duggalji who added to the personal inputs of their respective fathers Madan Mohanji and Rajinder Krishanji. Yet to get over the hangover. Keep it up Ibaadat. Thanks for a spectacular evening. Naveen left me completely floored with his singing.
Anand Desai, Managing Director, Multiconsult (P) Ltd.
What can I say? I am full of praises! What an awesome programme, enjoyed honestly every minute. I have attended many programmes Bollywood songs, but nothing like this! Song selection was great, I was humming every song, many were my favourites for last many years! Well sung by all the singers. Music was almost original, now I know why as you explained me later. At the same time, it was not overkill of full songs. Some small, some complete is an excellent format. Well sequenced, with lots of discussions. Any more importantly stories of the lyricist also narrated by near and dears. Appreciate your detailed research on the person. All in all, a great show. Keep it up.
Ashank Desai, Founder, Mastek Ltd.
Indeed we are thankful to you for such a great show & inviting person like us, who are eager to know & understand the legends journey, struggle, success & want to feel the golden era of film industry through their lyrics. The arrangements and venue chosen was very good, well known, easy to reach & convenient to all. Show was superb, well conducted. Keep it up
Jigar Desai, Sr.Manager, Sunidhi Securities & Finance Ltd.
Certainly it was a great evening and I really enjoyed. This was my first time attending the event …really liked the platform and concept. Found the entire thing very productive and time efficient with no break in between. I feel it was so perfect and I do not find any improvement opportunity. Yogesh Dhingra, Finance Director & Chief Operating Officer, Blue Dart Express Ltd.
I quiet enjoyed the function which was so beautifully presented. We enjoyed selection of songs and music.
Anand Didwania, Managing Director, New Globe Logistik LLP
Excellent presentation of great Rajinder Krishanji. Flawless singing, narration of his life & lyrics were beyond imagination. Thanks to you and Ibaadat for giving us such a great unforgettable evening.
Nandi Duggal
I have never come across *anyone connected with music*, who could be sooo emotionally invested in his project, and still have the acumen to take care of the minutest detail. I cannot explain what I feel, having been part of such an Incredible Tribute to My Father. इस *इबादत* के लिये, मैं शुक्रिया कैसै कहूं। एक कर्ज़ है मुझपे
Rajesh Duggal (son of Rajinder Krishan)
Your kind gesture of inviting us has indeed been an evening to remember. With the passage of time, we tend to overlook the great creations of personalities whose lyrics have left a mark in our lives. Such great men's creations are brought to light by the unfailing efforts of your organisation as if they are with us all the time. These are evergreen human beings whose memories linger on our lips. Being a great fan of old songs which I truly cherish.
Khushroo (& Yasmin) Elavia, Executive Director-Sales-Primary Markets, Axis Capital Ltd.
The singing (especially the two female singers and Sarvesh) was par excellence. The production was superb. Urvashi Gadekar
I wish to thank on behalf of my family and me for a wonderful evening. Feedback: just one word “Fantastic”. The entire programme was conducted with professionalism, no glitches, no halting a continuous 150 minutes of sheer delight both visually and to the ear! I appreciate the efforts, research and planning. After 3 days, we yet live in the memory of the evening and I find the wife humming the songs.
Kamlesh Gandhi, Retd. Managing Director, CIFCO
My mother is 85 years of age and she usually avoids most invitations from me .... even a lunch or dinner outing, but for this show she jumped up to say 'Yes' .... I want to be a part of this show.... The experience was mesmerising, magical, fascinating, exhilarating ... I can't find more adjectives to describe the feeling! The choice of songs was so apt and sequence so perfect that it was fascinating to watch her nod and hum most of them. I too jumped up to say a " wah wah " a few times. I wished I could come up and sing a few lines on one occasion. Such was the magic spell of this show. Thank you for inviting us & making us a part of this show. Your singers are very talented and your stage seating so nice and informal, it feels as if we are a family at a home Enjoying the evening sitting on a terrace on a Sunday evening. Thank you once again. Looking forward to your next show. We have deposited a cheque today for Rs. 11,111.00. You and your Foundation is involved in 'Ibaadat ' of music... in the true sense of the word! So, our contribution is just a drop in this ocean, the least we can do to join in this divine call!
Sonali Kamlesh Gandhi
Firstly many, many thanks for having invited my wife & myself for the spectacular musical evening on 3rd March. We both attend musical shows where old Hindi movies chart-busters are belted out, but this was way beyond our imagination. The concept was both unique & enthralling. We waited spellbound for learning about each gem penned by the gifted lyric writer Shri Rajinder Krishan. Introduction to his life, hearing anecdotes from the family members of film fraternity were added bonus. Each of the presenters were very, very cultured and a lot of homework seemed to have been on the topic of presentation. Each of the singers were very talented and lifted the songs to another level. I had heard some of them before but here they sounded even better. Maybe it was the choice of songs or the setting or the concept which mesmerized us. I am unhappy about the fact that I got introduced to this program so late in life and for having missed many programs. The others lyric writers I would like to know about are Poet Sahir Ludyanvi (sorry if i have got the spelling wrong), Hasrat Jaipuri, Shailendra, Gulzar Saab, Kaifi Azmi etc. I am a very big fan of Mohd Rafi, Music directors OP Nayyar, Ravi, Madan Mohan, Lakshmikant Pyarelal etc are also favorites...... but then expecting a program on them would be like changing the concept. Kindly think about how can be possible. Once again a huge thanks for inviting us over. Would love to be part of such events every time. Kindly keep us posted on the upcoming programs. Would also like to thank Ibaadat Foundation on ensuring great personalities and their much admired work remains in our hearts forever. Nitin Gosain
Really what an awesome informative program. You and your whole team is fantastic. Presentation and singers was superb. You took us to the golden era. We had great lovely time.
Chandra Prakash Gupta, Chandra Exports
Daastaan-e-Rajinder Krishan show- shortest 150 minutes of my life, I never knew time can fly so fast. Riveting, spell bound with no chance to divert attention. Regret that it came to an end. Thanks a million for doing what you are doing. Your and your Foundation’s passion is commendable and needs salutation. Please convey my feelings to team.
J.N. Gupta, Managing Director, Stakeholder Empowerment Services Pvt. Ltd.
It was a wonderful experience.
Narendra Gupta
A beautiful program. Always a pleasure being part of Ibaadat and listening to some wonderful stories, poems, poetry and songs of old times.
Nikhil Gupta, RBL Bank Ltd.
It is always such a pleasure attending Ibaadat's shows and each time it creates memories more beautiful than before. The most amazing part is the innovations that you and the team are able to bring in within the same concept and idea. Its highly creative and simply a class apart in content, story build up, execution and of course heart humming music. Please convey our compliments to all singers especially Suprriya, listening to her voice is what 'dil maange more n more'. Your show truly captivates audience across ages, this I realized when Saakshi & Manu also expressed their enjoyment. A look around and we see people in the audience with smile, singing along, swinging their heads.........completely soaked in. It's a great experience! This time best part was more number of singers, each carrying their unique style. When Sangeeta Ma’am said 'ye aaj ki shaam ki aakhiri peshkash hai', my instant reaction was 'Why?? Why not few more?? And I am sure most in the audience shared this emotion. Such is your fan base in Mumbai now. So I request team Ibaadat to organise shows more frequently here. All our friends who were audience this time are singing praises for the show and have very strictly instructed me not to ever miss giving them pass for all future shows. Sincere appreciation to the entire team. Thanks for making us a part of your worship. A small contribution from our side will reach you soon.
Prachi Gupta, Professor-Marketing, ITM School of Management
I really enjoyed this time's show. Even though I knew only a few of the songs, I still found it absolutely captivating due to the melodious singers and the interesting conversations. The songs and dialogue together made for a really great show and I also got to know a bit about Rajinder Krishan! The best part about the show was the beautiful warm atmosphere it created. (It was also fun to hear the gasps and exclamations of delight from the audience every time a song they love started being sung!). I hope to attend another one of the shows in Mumbai soon! Saakshi Gupta (1st year , HR College)
Yesterday's programme was just outstanding. Really enjoyed every moment
Sadhna Gupta
It was my privilege to have been part of your show. And am humbled by your words. I myself am not deserving of the importance but just my good fortune to be in the place I am in.
Sangeeta Gupta (Madan Mohan’s daughter)
Thanks a ton for arranging the passes for me. We really enjoyed every moment being there. Could come to know many things about RK, which we never knew Sangeeta Gupta’s friend
Many thanks for a wonderful evening yesterday. Enjoyed every minute of that. Ibaadat shows are getting better. You do variations in the format which keeps the concept very interesting. Singers' team is out of the world too!
Gautam Gupte, Managing Director, Ambit Pvt. Ltd.
Great show as always. Few points: O meri maina was the highlight of evening…great singing and dancing by Suprriya and Sarvesh; Sarvesh should be given more songs; Also, the programme must end on a high note and not with his demise....so you can pick up the tempo a bit at the end.
Pranav Haldea, Managing Director, Prime Database
A lovely evening. Loved the format and dedication of the team behind the marvel.
Shailesh B. Harani, Wordpress
Kal ka programme bahot badhiya raha. Aage bhi aise hi programme kare yahi shubhkamna.
Kaka J.P.
I am so glad! It was a great show! Deposited today a cheque of Rs. 50,000.00. A small contribution towards your amazing passion.
Gopal Jain, Managing Partner, Gaja Capital Partners
Words are not enough to describe the event!!! Truly excellent. Simply overwhelming. My sincere compliments to you and entire Ibaadat Foundation
Jitendra Jain, CFO- Corporate Finance, GMR group
It was such an awesome display yesterday of brilliant music makers.
Samar Kagalwala, Yes Bank
It truly was a memorable evening - not just for us but for all those that came for the show. Immense gratitude towards Ibaadat. भगवान से दुआ है - ibaadat इससे भी जयदा ख़ुशियाँ बाँटे - सालों साल, उम्र दर उम्र Shalini Kamath
Daastaan-e-Rajinder Krishan was thoroughly enjoyed by me along with my wife. One marvels at the depth of research you folks do for the presentation, various anecdotes of his life by the near and dear ones along with such melodious singing team, no Sir one doesn't see it as an amateur presentation. It is highly professional, and when folks of your dedication, who are not professionals, present it, it further adds to its charm. Our enjoyment of the event is further added by the fact that we belong to that era and all feels so nostalgic. By now you seem to have covered most of known lyricists, Brij Mohan Kapoor
Truly out of the world. Every moment was pure bliss. Keep it going. Our best wishes always with you and the team .
Sanjiv Kapur, General Manager, Multi Commodity Exchange of India Ltd.
Mujhe is show ke itne compliments mile hai ke kya batau. Thank you so much everybody Ibaadat Team ka bahot bahot shukriya ada karta hu ke aapke family mein mujhe shamal kiya.
Alok Katdare, Singer
Congratulations to Ibaadat for a great evening listening to such soulful songs penned by Rajinder Krishanji. The program was well managed and I only wished it would have lasted longer.
Neeraj Kayathwal
We are glad we had the chance to attend the show. It was a splendid evening.
Kanika Khandelwal, Sr. Executive-Secretarial & Compliance, Multi Commodity Exchange of India Ltd.
We consider ourselves privileged and lucky to be invited to your Ibaadat programme...featuring Rajinder Krishan this time. Obviously, you have held programmes on some similar lines on other personalities at other venues too...and we now feel unlucky that हम उनसे वंचित रह गए। पर चलो देर आये दुरुस्त आये। And all credit for this one goes to Rajesh Duggal Saab. Your programme was well presented in a kind of novel way ...and what was intriguing and most alluring to me that whilst some songs were obviously done on Karaoke style, some others though purely and correctly in tune and rhythm, had no accompanying musical melody. Not a beat was missed!! Wonder how did your singers carry it through. They deserve full credit for it and you all too for reposing so much confidence in them. The stage setting too was attractive as was the sound relay. I understand that your foundation is basically Delhi based and does not do many programmes in Mumbai. All the same, please do keep us in the loop as perhaps I may specially come to wherever and whenever you are holding these kind of programmes. The anchors themselves such as you Haldea Saab, Naveen Ji, Sangeeta ji etc. did a marvellous job. Post the programme, it was my privilege to meet Mr. Naveen Anand, Ms Sangeeta from Jaipur, Rajesh ji and some other personalities. It was good to know that the chief purpose of your foundation and the other similar ones is to promote good language. Good language - its crispness, its twists and turns is what stirs the soul and sets the heart fluttering and mind thinking. Look forward to catching up with you more often. Balbir Singh Khattar
Great event last night. Hats off to you for your initiative.
Roopa Kudva, Managing Director, Omidyar Network India Advisors
We both enjoyed the programme immensely. It was truly a very enjoyable evening of music. We observed that along with the progress of Ibaadat, the production has also become smoother & more professional. The singers, especially Sarvesh & Suprriya were outstanding, & our own Naveen now holds his own! Keep flying high, Team Ibaadat T. L. Palani Kumar, Director, SBI Mutual Fund
Both Shree and I really enjoyed the event, and I again acknowledge your passion to conduct this event. I have one suggestion - though there was an excellent selection of the songs (all the singers were great, with a special mention of Suprriya) whose lyrics were written by Rajinder Krishan, I felt some of the dialogues scripted by him could have been reproduced during the event. Sanjay Lokur, Asst.Vice President-IT-GIS, Reliance Infrastructure Ltd.
First of all, wish to thank for staging such a wonderful show. As a critic I would say it was par excellence In fact it was so inspiring and motivating Wish you great success in your future endeavours.
Sunita Mandelia
It was a pleasure and a privilege to have attended the "Daastaan-e-Rajinder Krishan" show. Thank you very much for the opportunity!! The show was an incredible, amazing and captivating show, just like the earlier ones. The effort behind the thoughtful selection and sequencing of the songs and stories connected with the life and times of RK was clearly visible and the singers were par excellence - be it Sangeeta or Suprriya or Naveen or Sarvesh or Alok or Anand! The format in which you present your shows is also unique and unparalleled so far and it is a treat to experience the same! Thanks again Prithviji and your team and I cannot wait for the next event!!!
Shailendra Maru
Congrats on a wonderful presentation on Rajinder Krishan ji. The man and his contribution to cinema and listeners to his poetry...A presentation that was well researched, presented and style that was more spontaneous and informal. Song selection was great and singers enthralled the audience. I have become your fan and hope that whenever, Ibaadat presents program in Mumbai, I hopefully be invited. Thanks again for inviting me to a wonderful evening. Nitin Mehra
It was truly a great show – very impressive work being done. Will send Rs 2000 donation Sunit Mehra, Hunt Partners
It was just fabulous and all of us really enjoyed it to the core. It was just fantastic.
Vipan Mehra, Director, Huechem Textiles Pvt. Ltd.
I must congratulate and thank you for arranging such a wonderful evening! Singers were very good, the setting was classy, music not loud, singing without orchestra was a fantastic experience and the compering was unique. The songs' choice was superb but happy and fun songs are enjoyed much more and also bond the audience. I wish your programs are more in number and advertised well so that even the common man can enjoy them, not only the elite. I don't see any harm in charging. Mamta Mehta
Thanks for inviting us for the Daastaan-e-Rajinder Krishan show. I wish to congratulate you for organizing such shows, we really enjoyed the concept and we look forward for such shows in future also. I would love to hear about Lyricist Shailendra if possible.
Paresh Mehta, Vice President-Fixed Income Market, LKP Securities Ltd.
Not sure if you recollect, we met when I was MD at CIBIL many years ago. We lost contact thereafter and yesterday evening I saw a new aspect of your passion in the Rajinder Krishan evening you had organized. Anand Desai introduced me to Ibaadat and I must say - wow - what an amazing initiative. It was brilliant in concept, design and execution and congratulations to you and the team. Being a great lover of old Hindi songs, specially the lyrics, I was thrilled to be part of the evening. I look forward to meeting you soon, in Mumbai or Delhi and hope you will put me on the mailing list for future similar programs.
Satish Mehta, Athena Advisors (Retd. MD, CIBIL)
It was indeed a pleasure for us to attend this beautiful evening…The co-ordination of every move, every song, every kissa that was rendered, the sheer talent of the singers was exemplary. This clearly highlighted the passion with which this evening was conceptualised and organised. The overwhelming response of the audience said it all. I congratulate the Foundation on this endeavour that timelessly preserves the legacy of great artists (21 shows thus far). This equally serves to encourage talented young minds to dare and take up such paths to glory. Shivanshu Mehta, Vice President-Business Development, Multi Commodity Exchange of India Ltd.
It was wonderful experience once again to sing for Ibaadat.
Sangeeta Melekar, Singer
It was a pleasure to attend the event that you did on Friday and in fact I was wondering whether we could chat to see whether we can collaborate. I am not sure whether you know, but we are setting up a first of its kind digital platform on Indian history and culture called Live History India. In our first phase we have launched on the social media and our website will be up soon. You can check out some of our work here… bit.ly/2jhjJwO . We are keen to look at film history and poetry and I had a couple of ideas around the same. Would be great to connect.
Mini Menon, Executive Editor, Bloomberg TV-India
I have made an NEFT for Rs.5,000 in favour of Ibaadat Foundation. I wish all success for your Foundation.
Shrijeet Mishra
I am very much impressed the presentation of show it was stunning excellent. I would express my congratulations to all who made show par excellence.
Ramesh Mistry
We thoroughly enjoyed the programme this year again. Thank you for your unique initiative. It was particularly interesting to know that the father of a low profile neighbor was such a great musician. He was also a low-profile genius. Very little was known to us about him prior to this event. Next morning, I drove to Oxford Golf Course, Pune for two days of golf there. I played the CD presented in the event in the car and had wonderful listening. Separately, is any donations to your Foundation eligible for 80G benefits?
S. K. Mitra, Chairman, QSK Advisory Pvt. Ltd.
Our heartiest congratulations for once again putting up a brilliant show. This was our second viewing and we really regret that we missed your earlier shows. The conceptualisation and execution were both top class as were the singers. A real class show indeed.
Hari Mundra and Abha Mundra
It was an excellent program. Thoroughly enjoyed it. Keep up the good work.
Shail Mundra, Wealth Advisor
The show was a great success and enjoyed by all. It is great to support such shows. We will always support.
Keshav R. Murugesh, Group Chief Executive Officer, WNS Global Services Pvt. Ltd.
It was a fabulous program. We always look forward to more of such programs in future.
Neena Nanda, Asst. Professor, ITM College of Management
The show was amazing.
Kamlesh Pandya
Bravo…what a wonderful concept and presentation skill was amazing, even the singers were excellent. The show was exceptional in every respect, a very new way of portraying poetry in a very different way altogether. On behalf of Sangeeta Gupta, I take this opportunity to thank you for the invite and hereby would surely be interested in being a part of the show in your future endeavors.
Ranjan Patel
Great show. The female singers were very good, particularly Suprriya.
Dilip Piramal, Chairman, VIP Industries Ltd.
Awesome show...my parents and guests too loved it. ..a great evening it was..
Avneesh Prashar (grandson of Rajinder Krishan)
This was the first Ibaadat programme I attended and was very impressed by the format and presentation. As a great fan of Urdu and Hindi poetry, I truly respect your effort to keep the beauty of the languages alive. Nandini Purandare
It was an amazing show. Hats off to you great effort.
Ajay Puri, Co. Secretary & CCO, Multi Commodity Exchange of India Ltd.
It was indeed my pleasure and privilege to attend the program. Where can we give our feedback on the show? Will definitely act on the donation also.
Narayan Rajagopalan, HDFC Bank
It was an outstanding program. The research done on the poet is highly commendable. Your show also shed light on the lyrics of all those evergreen numbers and how the orthodox lyricists do not give Mr. Rajinder Krishan the status he deserves. This information was news to many of us. It was also Mr. Madan Mohan’s contributions to his songs, which gave it those special nostalgic moments which I enjoyed till the end. Finally, the show moved up several notches in your new venue, Nehru Center. Hats off to you and your team’s effort.
Usha Rajaram
Indeed a surprise and pleasure that in my trade someone on stage deeply into music. I know all the artists in Mumbai and have done their shows in Jaipur and other cities. The show was good and different. Artists were good. Yes liked work of Sangeeta Bedi.
Kamal Prakash Rathi, Director, SS Corp.
We were thoroughly impressed with each one of your performances. We were grateful to have been invited for such a passionately researched performed and executed programme. We will surely attend each of the upcoming events in Mumbai. Arun Rawat
What an amazing evening it was. The shows keep getting better n better. You have built a really talented n enthusiastic team. It seems the team itself is enjoying so much on stage that difficult for audience to be left out. Rajinderji almost came alive. ' wo bhuli dastaan phir yaad aa gayi '. Great going.
Surya Rawka, Standard Chartered Bank Ltd.
Although the terribly constricting traffic let us reach the function almost 15 minutes after it had begun, we managed to sit and watch (and hear) it with rapt attention almost till 8 p.m. before departing for the next programme I was committed to attend (fortunately, also in Worli). Since I didn't want to disturb the audience, we sat very comfortably in about the 10th row, in side seats - and could also watch the audience enjoying all the songs. The programme was almost as good as your earlier shows, but I felt that the quality of singing had very slightly diminished from earlier shows - but your two main female singers were very good as usual, and so was the main female speaker. But the concept of the show was, as usual, outstanding, and everyone enjoyed and applauded accordingly. Actually, I've not been too well for the last year or so, and don't go out much. There are lots of problems in the field of radio, too, and my huge interview-based collection of radio shows, featuring great film stars and music stars, is also not getting any support from radio stations - they all want younger personalities steeped in modern "dhoom dhaam"! Anyway, thanks and best of luck.
Ameen Sayani
Thank you so much for yet another memorable programme – this time on Rajendra Krishanji. Thanks to the huge number of songs that were covered through mukhda’s, Ameen Sb said he was once again amazed with the huge range of Rajendra Krishanji’s work. He enjoyed the show. I was happy that Rajesh Duggal mentioned the fact about a snake on Rajendra Krishanji’s bed when he was born. I had quite forgotten about that! The only dampener in the show was your mic, due to which we lost out on part of what you were narrating. Due to a combination of a meeting I was in, which went on and on, and Ameen Saheb sprained ankle, we arrived late. We sat in the middle, so as not to disturb the audience. That is why you did not see us. And then we had to leave for the next function, which we finally did around 8.15 pm. I had called up Rajesh the next day and apologized. We would have liked to meet some of the other celebrities, but there was no interval. Though, in such a show, an interval would be detrimental. Apologies and thanks once again. I’m sure the show will be a hit wherever it goes. Given the expanse of talent and depth, you may want to be known as a “cinemascope production”! Regards
Rajil Sayani
My heartiest Congratulations to you and your team for putting up such a brilliant show. I have never seen a show of this kind earlier. It was really very kind of Sangeeta to think of me and of you to extend so many invites to me. All my friends are music lovers of the old music and they all loved the show and have send their Good wishes for all success in all your future shows. Rita Sethi
It was a wonderful experience. Girish Setia, Master Stroke
Hearty congratulations to you and your team on the success of the show. This unique format has been consistently delivering on successfully delving into the nuances of some of the legends of the Indian Film Music. I am still humming some of the songs. I also spent practically all of my weekend playing some of the songs on my Keyboard. The people who accompanied me also thoroughly enjoyed the show. Please do keep up the good work.
Bhavesh A. Shah, Managing Director-Investment Banking, JM Financial Institutional Securities Ltd.
Very nice program.
Linay Shah
The event was outstanding - as all the previous ones have been. Very happy to be part of this - look forward to many more. Rashesh C. Shah, Chairman & Chief Executive Officer, Edelweiss Financial Services Ltd.
As always, it was a pleasure and an exhilarating experience attending Daastaan-e-Rajinder Krishan. It is always difficult to put the appreciation into appropriate words, and more so after listening to the poetry of Shri Rajinder Krishan and getting lost in the same! Being greedy as always, looking forward to the next edition of Ibaadat in Mumbai!
Surabhi and Snehal Shah, Director, Fairwinds Asset Managers Ltd.
Am honoured that you invited us on stage. Really really love the show. Bhavisha and I wanted to chat with you about an ongoing association with Ibaadat Foundation. I'll set up a call with you next week, if ok with you. Vidya Shah, Chief Executive Officer, Edelgive Foundation
Thank you for inviting me for your program. "meri antaratma prasanna ho gai". All my beliefs and concepts about presenting a program for poets and lyricists were actually seen in your program. All that I aspire was seen in your crisp presentation. Poets and lyricists are close to my heart as they are to you. I relate to your work in several ways. Paritosh Narendra Sharma (son of Pandit Narendra Sharma)
Many thanks for sending the passes of the event. It was something which touched the heart and roused the sentiments though the duration of the event and even later. Apart from that it is an effort deserving deep appreciation for bringing to the people the poets who have touched their lives (without the benefactor realizing it) thorough songs, poems, ghazals penned by them. I have a suggestion. I am sure that a lot of research goes into making such wonderful programs. However, I believe that these beautiful efforts should reach the masses through radio/tv which will make your efforts visible to much larger audience. All earlier events can be made into a series of programs and think that the same will be hugely popular and will also help in raising money for this noble cause. I could not meet you after the event to convey my words of appreciation (perhaps you had left soon thereafter) but could meet some of the singers. I will be glad to make a small contribution to Ibaadat Foundation.
Rajiv Sharma, Chief Financial Officer, Fairwinds Asset Managers Ltd.
The show was as memorable as it was scintillating. Kudos to you and your team for consistently maintaining your exalted standard. The singers deserve a special mention. It is so heartening to find such a plethora of talent in our country. The venue was equally great; and above all, sticking to the time schedule.
Shankara Sharma
Thanks for Daastaan-e-Rajinder Krishan. It was excellent. Mr. Anand did a wonderful job this time. Gian Sunder Singh, Chief Consultant, Edumint Advisory Services
Thank you for the opportunity to be a part of a great musical evening. I was aware that the poet was very prolific and wrote many songs but the string of beautiful songs in such large numbers was a revelation. The program is beautifully designed and is unique in its presentation. The only feedback that I can give is Yeh Dil Mange More. Deepak Singhal, Executive Director, Reserve Bank of India
Excellent
Praveen K. Singhal, Executive Director, Multi Commodity Exchange of India Ltd.
Many many thanks for having us over for the show and it was really a magical experience. Would request if you keep us informed of any future shows in Delhi or Mumbai. We are sending a cheque as a token of our gratitude.
Shashi and Ena Sinha, CEO-India, IPG Mediabrands
First of all I would like to congratulate you on organising such a beautiful event. Kudos to your team who have managed such a wonderful show capturing the whole life of the legend-Shri Rajinder Krishan in such an entertaining and enlightening way. I thoroughly enjoyed the program especially listening to the all-time super Hit Songs of Rajinder Krishan...truly a nostalgic feeling. Dipesh Sohani, Asst. Vice President-Investment Banking, Edelweiss Financial Services Ltd.
Thanks for the wonderful evening. It was a SUPERLATIVE show, very well scripted and flawlessly executed. Superb singers. Inclusion of many "mukhdas" of songs gave much wider perspective of magnificent work of Rajinder Krishna ji. Thanks again for making me and my wife part of the show.
Paresh V. Soni, Dy. Vice President-Investment Banking, HDFC Bank Ltd.
Thanks indeed for a wonderful evening that Krupa & I enjoyed thoroughly. Thanks also for inviting us to express our opinion on the event. It must have taken a lot of preparation and rehearsals to put up such a seamless show for 150 minutes! Each of the artistes who rendered the songs and everyone who filled in with snippets and anecdotes were simply fantastic! We were mere mortals in front of such dedicated team!! From Krupa and myself, please accept a small donation of Rs.5000/- transferred by me today.
N. Srinivas, Director – Technical, Lloyd Insulations India Ltd.
I was invited to the show by Girish Setia and he had kept the format of the show a secret. We are so glad he did that. We came to the show with an open mind. We have heard Dr. Suprriya and Alok before and love their singing so we knew that we would have a nice experience. And what an experience we had. From the stage design and décor, the souvenir, to the concept of the show, to the conversation mode of moving the show forward, to the wonderful singers and their sincere portrayal of the songs, the presence of family members of Rajinder Krishanji and Madan Mohanji every aspect of the show was well thought through and executed to perfection. Hats off to you and your team. If there is one area of improvement, it would be in the selection of songs. Some of the songs were not as popular and could have been replaced by a few others but then everyone’s tastes are different.
Seema and Ramakrishnan Subramaniam
We had been extended the invitation by one of your regular attendees M. S.S.Sharma We thoroughly enjoyed this one-of-a-kind program and it was truly a very entertaining and informative evening for us. The singers were excellent and what heightened the experience was the linkages to various aspects of Rajinder Krishan's life and the participation of his family members and others' lent a special appeal to the whole show. It really brought to life the man behind the poet and his poetry and the whole program was wonderfully stitched together with never a moment of boredom or slackness. I wish to thank you on behalf my wife and myself for a wonderful evening and would appreciate if you could add us to your Invitee List for the future as we would be interested in attending your shows, especially in Bombay or Bangalore. Best Regards
Srinivasan Sundar & Sumathi Sundar
Awestruck!!! I thought I was in Broadway watching a show of an Indian writer so unique was the presentation. Thank a ton for making me a part of the audience on 3rd March. Rajindar Krishanji is one of my most favourite writers. Sang his songs since childhood. I was amazed and awestruck at the unique presentation. Kudos to the entire team.
Subhashini Swar, Swar Sagarika Music Circle-Andheri (W) (Daughter of Qamar Jalalabadi)
It was indeed a nice Bouquet of program “geet & anecdotes, carefully chosen & assembled” - to lend the Flavour of the Master and his ART. I would also appreciate if you could also keep me on your list of “Interested Urdu’dans”… Hailing from Lucknow that is what I can request you in the least.
Anil Tewari
It was a great show.
Hiren Mahendrakumar Trivedi
An excellent programme...Very well scripted and presented...Thoroughly enjoyed.
Praveen Trivedi, General Manager-EFD, Securities & Exchange Board of India
Daastaan-e-Rajinder Krishan was a memorable event - three hours of enthralling music and interesting anecdotes revealing several facets of a multi- dimensional and talented poet, lyricist and writer. One suggestion - most of the songs performed were his more serious ones. The lighter, peppier, fun songs (some of them performed in snippets) would perhaps have been more appreciated by the audience. I understand that the objective is to also highlight his work as a poet and writer (and so showcase more of the serious work) but in my opinion, a better balance between these and the lighter songs may have worked better. Nevertheless, we thoroughly enjoyed the event.
Ramesh Venkat, Chief Executive Officer, Fairwinds Asset Managers Ltd.
This brilliantly conceived show was held on Mar. 3 at Mumbai’s Nehru Centre Auditorium. The Foundation regularly celebrates titanic lyricists and has already done several shows across Indian cities on Majrooh Sultanpuri, Shailendra, Shakeel Badayuni and Neeraj. Each show was well-researched, painstakingly conceived and uniquely presented as per the personality and work of the writer. Prithvi Haldea has researched, written and directed this show along with Naveen Anand and Sangeeta Bedi. These dedicated and thoroughly passionate team ensured that the show began on the dot at 6.30 p.m. – India-West reporter entered the auditorium at 6.35 to hear the end of a ‘ghazal’ recited from the 1966 film “Jahan Ara.” The setting was unique – a series of sofa chairs amidst a backdrop of plants, with a mehfil-like ambience. The Ibaadat members themselves double up as anchors and even sing some portions of the songs, apart from established stage singers. There is banter and an informal bonhomie as massive nuggets of information on the artistes are doled out smartly to the audience. Said Naveen Anand, also the music organizer, to India-West: “It was imperative that people know the sheer range of Rajendra Krishan-ji’s work. Since he never ran after publicity, even the older audiences were very familiar with his iconic songs but never knew that it was he who had written them!” Out of necessity, the show was thus made up of 16 complete songs rendered by wonderfully competent artistes, including Suprriya Joshii, Sarvesh Mishra, Anand Bahal, Alok Katdare, Sangeeta Melekar and Anand himself. But they all also presented over 80 “mukhdas” of Krishan’s lyrics. This simple ploy ensured that the master lyricist’s work was showcased in a comprehensive way along with stories about him, including anecdotes and audiovisuals. And yes, Ibaadat disposed of an orchestra that would have taken up the stage: instead, for the 16 songs, they had really impressive minus-one tracks prepared by Haider Ali. Present at the function were the lyricist’s three sons, of whom Rajesh Duggal also spoke on stage and sang a couple of mukhdas, as well as late composer Madan Mohan’s children. A CD of 160 songs of the lyricist and an event souvenir were offered complimentary to all guests. Since the show was only by invitation, it was clear that money had been spent – lots of it! – in a judicious way. The playlist thus included complete songs like “Pal Pal Dil Ke Paas” (“Blackmail”), “Kehna Hai” (“Padosan”), “O Meri Maina” (“Pyar Kiye Jaa”), “Yun Hasaraton Ke Daag” (“Adalat”) and “Chal Udd Jaa Re Panchhi” (“Bhabhi”) with glimpses (‘mukhdas’) offered of gems like “Itna Na Mujhse” (“Chhaya”), “Tumhi Mere Mandir” (“Khandaan”), “Eena Meena Deeka” (“Aasha”) and others.
Rajiv Vijayakar, Film Critic
We had the rare privilege to attend this musical drama. I have no words to express my joy, appreciation & gratitude to the trustees, organizers and performers of Ibaadat Foundation to be able to carve out such a captivating & mesmerizing event handheld with such natural ease, immense skill & yet with that immaculate professionalism by each & every one of you. Kudos to Ibaadat! May your tribe grow & keep spreading this pure joy!!
Suhas Wadwalkar
Absolutely brilliant! My mother and I loved the show, the curation, research, the talent and best of all how you brought the Mehfil alive and among all of us in the audience.
Imran Zafar, General Partner, Gaja Capital