A melodious journey down memory lane

Almost every song, sung or composed by Hemant Kumar Mukherjee, brings back some memory or the other for most people. This was especially true for those, who attended a tribute concert in memory of the legend, held recently at the Chowdiah Memorial Hall. For some, it was a reminder of their first love, while for others, it was about the fun times they had during their adolescence. Nevertheless, the concert united all Hemant Kumar fans under one roof.

From his melodious tunes, the rare unheard songs to his signature style of humming, everything was brought alive by renowned singer Babloo Mukherjee and his team. The evening started with Divya Raghuram rendering a popular number Kahi Deep Jale Kahi Dil.

“There was an essence of longing for love in many of Hemantda’s songs, which immediately enthralls one and all,” said Rajan, who was in the audience. This was then followed by Dr Salim rendering O Raat Ke Musafir, a song which he says he sings to all his patients.

Hemant Kumar has not only been inspired by many, but also is said to be an inspiration for many. One person to have been inspired by him is Sinchan Dixit who sang, Bhawara Bada Nadan Hain from the film Sahib Biwi Aur Ghulam.

Talking about the beauty that lies in the different stages of life, the anchor of the evening, Hitesh Mehta, explained that it is the adolescent stage that is the most fun. “It’s the time when fun-loving poetry flows through and one longs to experience everything. Most of Hemantda’s songs give that feeling,” he added.

Soon, the most-awaited person of the evening took the stage — Babloo Mukherjee. He rendered Na Tum Hamen Jaano, Na Hum Tumen Janne and Jaage Darde, Ishq Jaage from the film Anarkali. Following this, his son Abhishek Mukherjee came on stage and was as good as his father when he sang Havao Pe Ek Dhun. Bringing on a good combination of both Hemant Kumar’s songs and compositions, Babloo sure did ensure a stress-free weekend.