Shailendra | A Love Lyric in Print by Amla Shailendra Mazumdar

We had a great evening. Getting to know more about Shailendra and his work can only mean happiness. Even the weather gods conspired to give a new meaning to 'Rimjhim ke taraane le ke aayi barsaat’. Yasir Abbasi, Author

Dear Prithviji. The programme was excellent. As it is, I am great follower of Shailendra and was an appropriate tribute to him, in his centenary year, by releasing Shailendra Book. The book reading by his daughter Amlaji narrating about her year spent with her father gave the insight about the family bonding of Shailendra. The songs by Prajakta and Sarvesh were melodious. Thank you so much for inviting me to such a lovely programme. Dharm Pal Aggarwal

Thank you for a nice evening. The duration was perfect. The programme was enjoyable, as always. Congratulations. Vineet Aggarwal, Exporter of Lady Handbags

We extend our heartfelt thanks for organizing the wonderful book launch event. The event was truly inspiring and meticulously planned, offering a great platform to celebrate the power of literature and creativity. The ambiance, thoughtful arrangements, and engaging interactions made it a memorable experience for us. We deeply appreciate the effort and dedication that went into making the event a success. Thank you once again for inviting us to be part of this special occasion. Warm regards, Vikram Aseeja

Many congratulations. Jagmohan Lal Bajaj, IAS Retd., Chairman, UP Electricity Regulatory Commission, Retd. Secretary Govt. of India

Thank you Prithvi for another engaging and enjoyable show! A different “Book Launch”, respecting time lines! Looking forward to the next production! Tried meeting you after the show - but you were perhaps backstage. Anshu Balbir, Director, Bianbi Pvt. Ltd.

Enjoyed the event. Pankaj Bansal, Co-Founder & Chief Executive Officer, People Strong

Thank you for another excellent programme. Prithvi Ji. Loved the way the book launch programme was organized. Looking forward to reading the book. Thanks to Amla Ji for providing complimentary copies…lot of us would have happily paid for it. It was very gracious of her! Wishing great success for the book! Sandip Kumar Beri, Partner, Shardul Amarchand Mangaldas & Co.

Haldea Saheb, we both, being inclined towards poetry and music, enjoyed the programme immensely. Thanks a lot, Sir. C.S. Bhadauria, Founder, Alok Masterbatches Pvt. Ltd.

Thank you so much Sir! What a lovely show. and such esteemed and creative chief guests! Gautam and I were completely enthralled with Prasoon Joshi's impromptu poetic verses as well as singing. Congratulations for being the curator of another stunning show. Warmest regards to you. Aparna Bhardwaj

What an inspirational session with Prasoon Joshi! Another stunning and very thoughtfully curated event! Congratulations Sir! Always a privilege to be invited and a delightful experience to attend Sir. Gautam Bhardwaj, Co-Founder & Director, Pinbox Solutions

Thanks, Prithviji. The program was really interesting and informative. The singers were superb. Each time we hear about an artist like Shailendraji and his life it is very inspiring and changes my perspective on issues. Thanks for the wonderful experience. Archana Dixit, Retd. Asso. Prof. Delhi University

Thank you, It was lovely to finally get to meet after all these years of knowing each other online. Sarvesh Mishra Prajakta Satardekar were both very good. And it was most generous of Amla Shailendra to distribute free copies of her book. Varun Grover was missed – and I am sure I am not the only one with the wish that the conversation with Swanand Kirkire, Raj Shekhar and Puneet Sharma had gone on for longer. Sundeep Dougal, Outlook

Loved the book launch…so very different. Enriching and entertaining. Virender Ganda, Sr. Advocate, Supreme Court

Dear Prithvi, the book launch ceremony on the great lyricist Shailendra was well organised. Prasoon Joshi spoke very well and his singing is excellent. From Amla's presentation, we came to know more about life and lyrics of Shailendra ji. As usual, your introduction was interesting. Overall, the programme was enjoyable. However, it would have been more enjoyable if there were more singing of iconic songs of the poet by two lovable singers of Ibadaat. Vivek Gautam

Yet another great show. The format was interesting. Rashmi Gupta, Retd. Teacher, Birla School

An enchanting, engrossing event. Congratulations Prithvi. It was one of the best book launches that I have attended. So innovative and informative. You had people who were in the know apart from the author Amla who spoke about Shailendra ji and they spoke with such devotion. The live music was an icing on the cake. It brought the lyrics and book to life. Sangeeta Gupta, Daughter music maestro Madan Mohan

Thank you for a wonderful evening "with" Shailendra. Dr. Saurabh Gupta, Dentist, South-Ex Dentist

Prithvi ji, Thanks for organising this wonderful event for launching the book on the legendary lyricist Shailendra. The programme was organised wonderfully well. Your punctuality at both the ends is extremely appreciated. It proves to be very convenient for the audience who come from far off places. Thanks for that. I heard Prasoon Joshi for the first time. He speaks well. The other persons who expressed their views, also spoke from their hearts. The complimentary copy of the book was like a “Cherry on the Cake.” Thanks for that also. On the whole, it was a wonderful programme which was organised wonderfully and professionally, and you deserve all the kudos for that. One very interesting fact which emerges from the book needs to be mentioned. The date of birth of the father of late Shri Shailender is 14th December (see page 67 of the book) which strangely coincides with the date of the death of Shailender himself. Surender Kumar Gupta, Retd. Director, Ministry of Home Affairs

I have been your fan. And this event only added to my admiration of you. Sabina Inderjit, Secretary General, Indian Journalists Union

Many congratulations for organising such a wonderful event. दिल्ली में आज दिन भर की तेज बारिश के बीच कविराज पर "Shailendra | A Love Lyric in Print by Amla Shailendra Mazumdar" किताब का लॉन्च था. पवन भाई के प्यार से ही संभव हो पाया कि मैं इस दिलकश माहौल का हिस्सा बन सका. सभागार में उपस्थिति भी शैलेन्द्र के प्रति प्यार बरामद करने वाली थी.यह एक ऐसा जमावड़ा था जिसमें सिर्फ़ रसिक थे. शैलेन्द्र से बिलाशर्त प्यार करने वाले। इवेंट आयोजकों की स्क्रिप्टेड परिकल्पना को छोड़ दें तो सर्वेश और प्रजाक्ता ने बहुत रम कर गाया. बताया गया कि गानों के लिए जो साउंडट्रैक था वह रेगुलर कैरेओके ट्रैक न होकर खास तौर पर क्रिएट कराया गया था, जो अगेन बहुत कन्विंसिंग था.शैलेन्द्र एक ऐसे कवि हैं जिनकी उपस्थिति और फिनॉमिना की बहुत सी परतें अभी खुलनी बाकी है. अभी तो हम सब उनके फैनडम में हैं जो और भी गहराएगा जब हम शैलेन्द्र के शब्दों पर रुककर गौर करेंगे. इस लुच्चई भरे समय में जो खुद को शैलेन्द्र का वारिस समझने की खुशफहमी में हैं उन्हें अपनी भाषा, सरोकार, काव्यकला और मनुष्यता के फटे गिरेबान में झांकना चाहिए. शैलेन्द्र होने के लिए वो लहू भी लगेगा जो आंख से टपकने से पहले दिल में जमा जाता है. पवन भाई ने स्वानंद किरकिरे, राज शेखर और पुनीत के साथ एक छोटा सा लेकिन फुल ऑफ एक्टिविज्म सेशन अंजाम दिया जिसमें वरुण ग्रोवर की कमी खटकी. ऐसा लगा कि हम शैलेन्द्र के क़र्ज़ को एक्नॉलेज करने की एक सीरियस शाम बिता के लौटे. 'कहते हैं ज्ञानी दुनिया है फ़ानी पानी पर लिक्खी लिखाई।' जिस दिन इस लाइन के नाखून भर के वजन की लाइन लिख दी जाएगी, शैलेन्द्र खुशी में एक और सिगरेट सुलगा लेंगे. एक बार फिर शैलेन्द्र की स्मृति को सलाम करता हूं जिन्होंने हमारा जीवन कविता की बहुरंगी छवियों से संवारा है. Syed Mohd. Irfan, BBC

Wonderful programme. We had a lovely evening of poetry, music, stories and bon homie. Thank you Prithvi ji. Kudos to your team for a well-run event. Meenu Iyer, Leadership Skill Coach

The Book Launch was truly an event, in the true sense of the word, and so very different from the rest. We loved all the interactions on stage and the snippets shared. It was, indeed, an honour, to hear all the greats, in person. Prithviji, you are expanding your horizons to another level and we are so very grateful that you let us be a part of that journey. Thanks once again for this memorable evening. Neeta Jalan

Dear Prithvi, many congrats for curating such a beautiful event. Have never been to a book release function that was planned to perfection including the choice of the chief guest and panelists. The singers were truly icing on the cake! Best. Dr. Jaishri Jethwaney, Sr. Adviser-Comm. (ITSU), Ministry of Health & Family Welfare

Dear Prithvi Haldea Sir, It was a privilege to attend the Shailendra Book Launch Event on 27th December. The event was beautifully curated, reflecting the depth of Shailendra Ji’s work and legacy. The seamless coordination, insightful discussions, and the presence of such an enthusiastic audience made it a truly memorable experience. As a professional with over 11 years of experience in music teaching and someone deeply involved in the cultural space through my initiative Sangeet Sadhna, I found the event highly inspiring. It reaffirmed the importance of preserving and promoting our literary and artistic heritage. Thank you for the opportunity to be part of this wonderful journey. Wishing Ibaadat continued success in celebrating art and culture. Ashutosh Jha, Founder, Sangeet Sadhna

I have got so many calls and inputs from a lot of friends I had invited and they were very happy with the entire show and the concept. Thank you for putting this up. Pavan Jha, Film Historian

Prithviji, thank you once again for a very enthralling evening...it was an eye-opener as well, since I learnt many new facts! It's such an honour to be part of your invitee group. I wanted to meet you, unfortunately barely reached at 5.32pm, due to heavy traffic n rain, even though we had left Gurgaon at 3.15pm! After the event you were too busy, chalo, another time Will you be having the Anand Bakshi show in Delhi sometime? Alternately, is it possible to get invites for both Mumbai shows, 20^th and 21^st February? I'm willing to travel to Mumbai for this. Dr. Anupama Jhingon, President, Dr. Anupama's Academy

It was a lovely evening. Warm regards. Prasoon Joshi, Poet, Lyricist and Screenwriter

It was a very enjoyable function, Prasoon Joshi was outstanding, he recited some of his poetry as well and connected them with Shailendra’s poetry. Sapna was happy to have stepped out. To top it all we got hot pakodas before the function and an autographed book after the function. Sunil Kala, Trustee, Fostiima Business School

It was a lazy weekday afternoon when the world was celebrating Christmas Eve. The husband and I were happily enjoying lively conversations with Antara Nanda Mondal and Partho over cups of tea and delicious baiguni. She showed us this book on legendary poet Shailendra written by Amla Shailendra Mazumdar di, which she had already purchased from Amazon. We talked about the book launch which was scheduled two days later. And Harshad Khatavkar exclaimed seeing the cover page: Eyes of a Yogi! We were startled by that remark. It was about Shailendra!! This statement by the husband had a deep impact on my outlook towards Shailendra and the songs he composed for films. And the thought process began. Poetry of Shailendra was beyond borders and human boundaries!! It transcended all expected bounds of this world, thus becoming the voice of everyone. This is exactly what was echoed by leading poets of today - Dr Prasoon Joshi, Swanand Kirkire, Raj Shekhar and Puneet Sharma during the book launch of: Shailendra A Lyric In Print A Daughter Remembers - by Amla Shailendra Mazumdar The event was organised by Prithvi Haldea ji of Ibaadat. Shailendra and Shankar Jaikishan did some of the finest work for RK banner. But he did great service to Hindi cinema by composing classics in Bandini, Do Bigha Zameen, Guide, Madhumati, Parakh and many more. His songs were lament at times, a critical review of the society. But he always gave hope in the same song. THAT, according to me, is a characteristic of a yogi! Though I can't have enough of his poetry, here are few of my most favourite songs: 1. Movie – Guide, Kehte hain gyani duniya hai faani, Paani pe likkhi likhaai. Hai sabki dekhi hai sabki jaani, Haath kisike na aani, Kuchh tera na mera, Musafir, jaayega kahan? 2. Movie - Do Bigha Zameen, Aise beej bichha re, Sukh chain uge dikh dard mite, Mann mein naache re sapnon ka dhaan hara, Hariyala saawan Dhol bajaata aaya... 3. Movie - Shree 420, Chhoti si baat na mirch masala, Kehke rahega kehne wala, Dil ka haal sun ae dilwaala… 4. Movie – Parakh, Khaak ho jaaye hum pyar ke naam par, Pyar ki raah mein roshni toh rahe, Mere mann ke diye, Yunhi ghut ghut ke jal tu mere laadale... 5. Movie - Boot Polish. Nanhe munne bacche teri muthhi mein kya hai, Muthhi mein hai taqdeer humaari, 6. Movie - New Delhi, Kal ho tha kal raha hoga, Aage ki soch kya hoga, Tooti puraani dhapali pe, Tu kal ka marsiya mat ga, Arey bhai nikal ke as ghar se...Shailendra, indeed will remain the poet for all seasons! Sharing some moments captured during the book launch. Thank you Amla di and Prithvi ji Meeting you Sangeeta Gupta di is always a pleasure. Attending the programme with like-minded friends was the icing on the cake Missed meeting you Yasir Abbasi. Pavan Jha ji...you steered the book discussion very well! Thank you. Sharvari Khatavarkar, German Language Teacher and Harshad Khatavarkar, Jt. General Manager (Drones/ATC), Airports Authority of India

Five iconic songs by lyricist Shailendra and backstories. Chakke Mein Chakka to Suhana Safar. At the launch of 'Shailendra: A Lyric in Print', author and Shailendra's daughter Amla Shailendra Mazumdar shared stories about his life and his iconic songs. The launch of the lyricist's daughter Amla Shailendra Mazumdar's book was recently organised by the Ibaadat Foundation at the India Islamic Cultural Centre. Bhaiya Mere Rakhi Ke Bandhan Ko Nibhana. The Bollywood song that celebrates the bond between brothers and sisters, and one without which Rakshabandhan feels incomplete, has a tragic backstory. The song, from the 1959 movie Choti Behan, was written by lyricist Shailendra in memory of his two sisters who died in their childhood. The younger sister Kamla’s death was especially traumatic for him; she held a special place in his heart. Later Shailendra met Hena Rani Dutt, the sister of his high school classmate, with whom he formed a lifelong sibling bond. Similar tales from Shailendra’s life and the backstories of his iconic songs were revealed at the recent book launch-cum-musical event organised by Ibaadat Foundation at the India Islamic Cultural Centre, Shailendra: A Love Lyric in Print, a book by the lyricist’s daughter Amla Shailendra Mazumdar. “We saw our life’s journey through Baba’s songs,” said Mazumdar. Another famous Hindi film song that many Indians hum during pleasant weather or on road trips is “Suhana Safar Aur Ye Mausam Haseen, Humein Dar Hai Ke Na Hum Kho Na Jaye Kahin.” The song is from the 1958 rebirth-revenge drama Madhumati. Unlike other film noirs, which were mostly filmed indoors, Madhumati was shot at outdoor locations such as Ranikhet, Ghorakhal, Vaitarna Dam, Aarey Milk Colony, and various hill stations. This track was inspired by a place in Pakistan. Shailendra spent his childhood playing in the snow-covered hills of Murree, now a popular destination for visitors in Pakistan. While Shailendra’s grandfather served in the army under British rule and ran the military canteen, Shailendra used to play in the snow and admire the beauty of the hills, which later inspired him to create this evergreen song. Playtime, kids and hunger for success…Who could have ever imagined that the beloved song Nanhe Munne Bachche Teri Mutthi Mein Kya Hai, which resonates with nearly every generation, came from the antics of Shailendra’s own children? This song was a memorable part of the 1954 film Boot Polish. “One evening us kids and Mummy went to a tailor shop. Buntoo Bhaiya (Shailey Shailendra) stuffed his pockets with cloth scraps to make a ball with them. Later, when we returned home, Dina Aunty noticed Buntoo Bhaiya’s bulging pockets and teasingly asked, “Nanne Munne Bachhe, teri pocket mein kya hai?” With a smile, Buntoo Bhaiya pulled out the scraps, singing, “Pocket mein hai katran hamari,” Mazumdar said. While Shailendra’s wife got annoyed looking at the mess created with cloth scraps, he was all smiles. “I’m certain he had some lines ready in his mind for another song,” recalled Mazumdar. Another children’s favourite was Shailendra’s song “Chakke Mein Chakka, Chakke Pe Gaadi” from the 1968 film Brahmachari. It was inspired by all the moments Shailendra spent on the balcony of his home, watching his kids play on the ground. Shailendra sometimes played cricket with the boys. However, he mostly admired the children from afar as they played hockey, badminton, seven tiles, and sometimes ‘Langdi’. “Our excitement knew no bounds when we discovered that ‘Lalli Tamata’ and ‘Gattu Gatheela’ (two comic characters from Brahmachari) were based on our group of friends,” added Mazumdar. The book also includes a section on Shailendra’s songs written for children. It also highlights how Shailendra’s simple, everyday conversations found their way into Bollywood films. For instance, during a meeting with Raj Kapoor, Shailendra made a casual remark: “Hum Bhi Hai Tum Bhi Ho Aamne Samne.” These seemingly ordinary words later inspired a powerful verbal confrontation in the 1961 film Jis Desh Mein Ganga Behti Hai, where they were used in the iconic exchange between Kapoor’s character, Raju, and the dacoits. Shailendra moved to Mumbai with his wife from Uttar Pradesh in 1947 shortly after getting married. Mazumdar shared how her mother reminisces about the early days when money was tight, and with just one potato in the house, they had to choose whether to eat it for lunch or save it for dinner. Later in his career, Shailendra wrote songs about hunger and the longing for good food. Aalu tamatar ka saag, imli ki chutney bane, roti karari sike, ghee usme asli lage! The song Suraj Zara Aa Paas Aa was featured in the 1959 movie Ujala, features Shammi Kapoor. Almina Khatoon, Correspondent, The Print

Overall, I enjoyed all the sessions - some a little more. Each speaker had a way with words, which made the conversations even more interesting. I met you and many other friends after years. I had almost stopped attending programs but Shailendra ji was special to so many of us. Naresh Khattar

रिश्ता दिल से दिल के ऐतबार का, ज़िन्दा है हमीं से नाम प्यार का, कि मर के भी किसी को याद आएंगे, किसी के आंसुओं में मुस्कुराएंगे, कहेगा फूल हर कली से बार बार,जीना इसी का नाम है. शैलेंद्र की याद में एक हसीन शाम,और कुछ प्यारे लोगों से मुलाकात: जीना इसी का नाम हैl शुक्रिया, इतने प्यारे कार्यक्रम का आयोजन करने के लिए,जहां चंद भले लोगों से दो बातेँ करना का मौका हमें भी मिला. Nirupama Kotru, Jt. Secretary & Financial Advisor, Ministry of Coal

Thanks for a lovely evening. Ashok Lavasa, Retd. Finance Secretary, Retd. Election Commissioner

Great programme. Sorry couldn't come home for dinner. Please extend my thanks to Priyanka ji for giving me a large pot of red roses. Novel Lavasa, Independent Director

As always, a masterpiece. G. P. Madaan, Managing Partner, Madaan Law Offices

Lovely evening with Shailendra’s songs. A four word and a foreword conversation about a great lyricist and our contemporary maverick poets’ lyricists that left audience asking for more. A daughter remembers. Launch of a book on Shailendra saab by Amla Shailendra, - Gayatri Manchanda

Dear Prithvi ji, like as always, my husband n I loved yr latest programme on Shailendra sahab. All those melodious songs brought back our childhood n youthful memories! Great singing & an illustrious panel! On another note, your choice of d venue of India Islamic & Cultural Centre was far far better than the now very old and badly maintained Kamani auditorium! Looking forward to your next presentation. Neetu Mathur, Emirates Photo Marketing, Abu Dhabi, UAE

Thank you so much Prithvi. It was just superb. I am happy at the way the event turned out. And I cannot thank you enough for it. Enjoyed the dinner immensely. Please pass on my best to Priyanka for the delicious spread. Warm regards Amla Shailendra Mazumdar, Daughter of Shailendra

Hi Prithvi ji. Thank you for inviting me. It was a truly fantastic event and very nostalgic. Only suggestion is wish there were more songs but I guess time constraints were there. Looking forward to some great shows in the future. Ajit Menon, Founder & CEO, Matrrixx Cricket

Dear Prithvi ji. An amazing evening. A book launch was never so endearing and mesmerizing. Anurag Mishra, Retd. Secretary, Ministry of Information & Broadcasting

Thank you Pavan ji, Ibaadat Foundation, Amla Di and everyone involved for a most memorable evening of reminiscing how Kaviraj Shailendra's poetry and songs continue to be part of our lives - inspiring, guiding, encouraging, and helping us reflect and respond to life's twists and turns. The beautifully produced autographed book is a precious keepsake. Enjoying reading the lovely memoirs. Antara Nanda Mondal, Chief Editor, Learning & Creativity

Thanks Prithvi. It was a truly memorable event. I can mail you with some details and ideas. I am also planning to tweet and do a FB post on it. Madhavan Narayan

Thank you for a most wonderful session, I wish we could have listened to more of his heart rendering songs. Lata Pall, Advisor, LIC

सत्ताईस की शाम बहुत सुहानी थी। इबादत की, पृथ्वी भैय्या की, जय हो. शैलेन्द्र जी की संवेदनशीलता, शिल्प, उनकी शख्सियत के सुरों में गोते लगाना… सब अद्भुत था! Event बढ़िया रहा, बस ये कि प्यास बुझी नहीं, और भड़क गयी. बातें, गीत… स्मृतियाँ… सब कुछ, और बहुत चाहिए था. ‘मन की बंसी पर तू भी…’ भावों की बांसुरी बजती रहती कुछ देर और अगर. अब एक पूरा दो-ढाई घंटे का “गीत शिखर-शैलेन्द्र / गीतों के शिखर, शैलेन्द्र” programme का इंतज़ार है. धन्यवाद मुझे शामिल करने के लिए . Will be happy to volunteer for Ibaadat Foundation. Anand Pandey, Retd. Director, Adfactors

It was awesome Prithvi! Prasoon Joshi was very impressive. It was great to see the Ibaadat format work so well for book launch as well. Dhruv Prakash, Director, Indiamart

Ibadat programmes never disappoint. A new step towards your purpose of Thankfulness to the lyricists and shayars who, otherwise, go unheralded. Bravo. Dr. Narottam Puri, ENT Doctor, Fortis and Former Cricket Commentator

शैलेंद्र का गीत बन अमर होना चाहूंगा: प्रसून…जागरण संवाददाता, दक्षिणी दिल्ली: गीतकार शैलेंद्र ने एक आम आदमी की भावना को शब्दों में कुछ इस तरह पिरोया कि हर किसी को वो अपना लगता है। वो सरल, सीधे और सच्चे बोल लिखने वाले एक महान गीतकार थे। मेरी यही तमन्ना है कि दोबारा जन्म मिले तो शैलेंद्र का गाना बनूं और अमर हो जाऊं। यह बातें कवि, लेखक व गीतकार प्रसून जोशी ने शुक्रवार को लोधी रोड स्थित इंडिया इस्लामिक कल्चर सभागार में कही। उन्होंने गीतकार शैलेंद्र पर उनकी बेटी अमला शैलेंद्र मजूमदार द्वारा लिखित पुस्तक 'शैलेंद्र: ए लव लिरिक इन प्रिंट' का विमोचन भी किया। उन्होंने कहा कि गीतकार शैलेंद्र ने कभी भी हिंदी या उर्दू के भारी भरकम या क्लिष्ट शब्दों का प्रयोग नहीं किया। आम बोलचाल के शब्द उनके गीतों की ख़ूबसूरती हैं। उनके गीतों में कभी भी कड़वाहट नहीं रही। फ़िल्मी गीतों को धुन, सिचुएशन और किरदार के दायरे में रचा जाना होता है। शैलेंद्र ने इन सीमाओं के बावजूद ऐसे गीत रचे जो सुनने पर आज के ही मालूम पड़ते है। उनकी एक-एक पंक्ति जुगनू की तरह सुनहरी लकीर खींचती चलती है। इस दौरान इबादत फाउंडेशन के चेयरमैन पृथ्वी हल्दिया, फिल्म इतिहासकार पवन झा, गायक स्वानंद किरकिरे, पुनीत शर्मा व गीतकार राज शेखर ने भी गीतकार शैलेंद्र के जीवन पर अपने विचार व्यक्त किए। Mohammad Raiisii, Dainik Jagran

Dear Haldeas, Congratulations for all the wonderful programmes that you organize and thanks for inviting us both. Mahender Sarin, Retd. Consultant, World Bank

Dear Prithvi ji, It was amazing, emotional, deep-hearted, soulful feeling I had during this wonderful event. From my heart, I congratulate you and Ibaadat Foundation for this initiative. Looking forward for more feeling in future. Amit Sharma

इस्लामिक सेंटर में प्रसिद्ध गीतकार शैलेन्द्र जी पर उनकी पुत्री अमला मज़ूमदार द्वारा लिखित पुस्तक के विमोचन का कार्यक्रम वास्तव में अनूठा और उत्कृष्ट रहा. मैं स्वयं 45 वर्षों से रेडियो और टेलीविज़न से सक्रिय रूप से जुड़ा हुआ हूँ. जानता हूँ स्तरीय कार्यक्रम तैयार करने में कितनी मेहनत लगती है. कार्यक्रम में सर्वेश जी और प्राजकता जी की गायकी ने चार चाँद लगा दिए. मुंबई में सर्वेश जी के कार्यक्रम में एंकरिंग करने का अवसर मिला था. अभी भी मैं संगीत के कार्यक्रम का सञ्चालन करता रहता हूँ. कृपया भेंट का समय दे कर अनुगृहीत करें. Pradeep Sharma, Sr. Media Professional, Broadcaster

Thank you so much for yet another memorable wonderful evening… Can’t wait to see more of your shows Best always and a big thank you once again. Radhika Sharma

Very nice Prithvi Ji. Perfect for the purpose it was designed - the book launch. Your talk with Amla and Prasoon Joshi was the highlight of the show. The discussion moderated with Swanand Kirkire and others could have been slightly longer but I guess time was a constraint. Poonam and I thoroughly enjoyed. Your clockwork is most appreciated by the audience. You are now gradually becoming a brand and meticulous research, excellent music, mesmerising singing and on the dot punctuality are being most appreciated by your fans. Ranjan Sharma, Managing Director, Star Global Resources Ltd.

Dear Prithviji, Thank you for the wonderful and enchanting programme. You are doing a wonderful work Sir! Looking forward to many more such events. Sanjeev Sharma, Managing Director, Integral Advisory Services Pvt. Ltd.

Book Launch: Shailendra - A Love Lyric in Print by Amla Shailendra Mazumdar. A daughter's tribute to her father, Shailendra, comes alive in the book "A Love Lyric in Print". The book was officially launched on December 27, 2024, at the India Islamic Cultural Centre, Lodhi Road, New Delhi, in an exclusive programme featuring a discussion-conversation format accompanied by song sequences. Eminent lyricists Prasoon Joshi, Swanand Kirkire, Raj Shekhar, and Puneet Sharma participated as panelists, sharing their insights on the legendary lyricist Shailendra. Amla Shailendra Mazumdar, the author and daughter of Shailendra, read excerpts from her book. Film historian Pawan Jha skillfully moderated the panel discussion. Mr. Prithvi Haldea, a key person from Ibaadat Foundation, was the main organizer, presenter, and designer of the event. Beautiful song renditions were done by Prajakta Satardekar and Sarvesh Mishra from Mumbai. Sharing a few photographs from the function, which capture the essence of this memorable evening. Enjoy the viewing! Dr. Raajeev Shrivaastav, Sr. Author, Scholar & Film Director

The fact that the auditorium was nearly full despite continuous rain in Delhi on that particular day itself is enough to know the reputation of your teams work and presentation. Considering it was not the usual Ibadat style musical evening only goes on to prove that whatever is touched by Ibadat turns into gold. Please keep it up. For we Indians reading anything about Bollywood in any magazine or newspaper is enjoyable. Reading the book on Shailendra at home at a leisure pace is proving very absorbing. Dinesh P. Singh, Retd. Engineer

Dear Prithvi Haldea ji. The programme was excellent. Congratulations to you, your team, Amla didi and Pavan ji. Sarvesh Mishra and Prajakta performed very well. All the speakers spoke par excellence. Amla didi is really a great human being. Your vision and mission are excellent. अमला दीदी के निमंत्रण पर गीतों के जादूगर शैलेंद्र जी के जीवन और गीतों पर उनकी बेटी आदरणीय अमला शैलेंद्र मजुमदार जी की अंग्रेजी भाषा में लिखी पुस्तक के लोकार्पण समारोह में शामिल होकर बहुत आनंद और गर्व की अनुभूति हुई.l जाने माने कवि गीतकार फ़िल्म फेयर और राष्ट्रीय पुरस्कार से सम्मानित प्रसिद्ध गीतकार प्रसून जोशी जी और दो बार राष्ट्रीय पुरस्कार से सम्मानित गीतकार स्वानंद किरकिरे, गीतकार राजशेखर, गीतकार पुनीत शर्मा, अमला दीदी, इबादत संगीत संस्था के संस्थापक पृथ्वी हल्दिया और पुस्तक को प्रकाशित करने में अहम भूमिका निभाने वाले संगीत अध्येता और लेखक प्रिय भाई पवन झा द्वारा दिल्ली में पुस्तक का लोकार्पण किया गया.l सभी सम्मानित दर्शकों को शैलेंद्र जी की बेटी और पुस्तक की लेखिका अमला दीदी द्वारा शैलेंद्र जी पर लिखी गई पुस्तक को उपहार के रूप में दिया गया. प्रसून जोशी जी और स्वानंद किरकिरे ने शैलेंद्र जी पर अपने वक्तव्य के साथ साथ शैलेंद्र जी के गीतों के कुछ अन्तरें प्रस्तुत कर इस संगीत मयी महफ़िल में चार चाँद लगाए.l अमला जी ने बहुत मार्मिक तरीक़े से अपने पिता और कविराज शैलेंद्र को याद किया. राज शेखर, पुनीत शर्मा के वक्तव बहुत अच्छे और काबिले तारीफ़ थे. संचालन पृथ्वी हल्दिया और पवन झा ने किया.शैलेन्द्र जी के गीतों की मधुर प्रस्तुति सर्वेश मिश्रा और प्रजक्ता द्वारा की गई. एक यादगार संगीत और साहित्यिक संध्या के आयोजन के लिए अमला दीदी, पृथ्वी हल्दिया और पवन झा को हार्दिक बधाई और साधुवाद. अमला दीदी की पुस्तक “Shailendra a love lyric in print” शैलेंद्र जी के चाहने वालों के लिए नव वर्ष का नायाब तोहफा है. अमला जी ने शैलेंद्र जी के जीवन, गीतों और फ़िल्म तीसरी कसम के मार्मिक प्रसंगों का बहुत भावपूर्ण और दिलचस्प वर्णन किया है. पुस्तक ज़्यादा से ज़्यादा पाठकों तक पहुँचे. हार्दिक शुभकामनाएँ. Indrajeet Singh, Shailendra Samman Trust, Dehradun

Everything about the event was just super perfect. Gajendra Singhvi, Managing Director, Hindustan Fibres Ltd.

Thank you for a very enjoyable and informative evening. So well put together! Prasoon and both singers were excellent, Anil Sinha, Retd. Director, IFC, World Bank Group

Mr. Haldea…yet another unique and outstanding show. Sat glued to my seat. Being part of the shows, I have been transported to a different era, one that I have loved and enjoyed, whatever little I know of it. I did not know anything about Shailendra, for example. Now, thanks to the show, I want to read about him and his works. The passion with which the show was put together (Prasoon Joshi's words added context for the audience so beautifully) is something that I would not want to miss it. It was raining all day and I also had a bad cold, but I still did not want to skip it for anything. No one catches the heartbeat of India better than our lyricists. I don't know anything about the current crop of lyricists, but it certainly applies to the older generation of them. The presence of the younger generation of lyricists perhaps tried to serve as a bridge for the intervening years. The book of Shailendra is the first I will pick up after completing the current one I am reading. Ashutosh Sinha, Sr. Editor, Economic Times

The event was great and very nostalgic... few more songs would have been icing on the cake... Look forward to the next show. Pawan Kumar Tibrawalla, Chairman & Managing Director, Archit Buildcon Pvt.Ltd.

We loved attending the book launch. I am loving the book. Your insight and study of the lyricists makes the evenings so endearing. Wish a few songs of Shailendra ji were sung at length as is done in the regular Ibaadat programmes. Vivek Tiwari, Managing Director, Clarion Organics Ltd.

It was a well-organized programme. बाहर बरसती बरसात और ठण्ड के बावजूद अन्दर "इण्डिया इस्लामिक सेंटर" के ऑडिटोरियम में शैलेन्द्र के गीतों और उनके जीवन से जुड़े किस्सों के बखान ने "एक दो तीन नहीं" कई कई बार "मौसम रंगीन" किया| समारोह प्रबंध और संचालन दुरुस्त था और इसी नाते ऐसा लगा कि इतनी जल्दी समाप्त हो गया| किस्सों के बीच शैलेन्द्र गीतों का गायन सारे कार्यक्रम को मधुर बना गया Rakesh Tyagi, Cinemanthan

It was a delightful experience. The book launch function is normally usually a formality with a book being formally introduced to audiences with talks felicitating the author by the well-known VIPs followed by refreshments and high-tea. Here, it was different by letting the author speak at length, highlighting the major features of the book, the unique qualities of the person concerned and giving away the books as complimentary. Book launch is another feather on the cap of Ibaadat Foundation. Programme could have ended at 7.30 pm, giving a lease of another 15 minutes instead of ending hurriedly at 7.15 pm. In such a creative programme, the speakers generally go emotional and search for words to make the occasion solitary & pensive. K. Vaidyanathan, Advisor, Pristine Water

Dear Prithvi, thank you for a wonderful evening celebrating Shailendra and his immortal songs. The entire show was effective and evocative. Thanks. Achyut Vaze, Winner, Maharashtra State Award for Best Playwright

Each of your event is just perfect. This one on Shailendra was unique and entertaining. V.P. Venkatesh, Consultant Zuno General Insurance Co. and Ritu (daughter of Mukesh)

Dear Prithvi ji, I had an incredibly enriching evening yesterday at Amla's book on the great Shailendra. Thank you. And, I would like to mention that your grace and presence made the evening also made the mehfil special. Your humility on the differences of opinion on contemporary lyrics impressed me a lot. The evening was a karz on me from you. Shukriya janab. We have perhaps met once at Rajiv (economist) Ji's house some years ago. Regret could not attend your dinner... Sangeeta regretted to you because of house guests. More creative energy to you, Sir. Sanjay Verma, Member, Union Public Service Commission (Former Chief of Protocol, Ministry of External Affairs)

Book Launch: "Shailendra | A Love Lyric in Print by Amla Shailendra Mazumdar", Delhi - Some messages received