Bengaluru, NFAPost: HCL Concerts, an initiative by HCL, committed to preserving and promoting the glorious heritage of Indian music and dance, recently concluded the spellbinding ‘Dastan-e-ghazal’ by eminent playback singer Shilpa Rao in Bengaluru.
The event, held at the St. Joseph’s University Auditorium, Bengaluru, on 17th November, marked a significant chapter in the city’s continued appreciation for soul-stirring Indian music.
This event was part of HCL Concerts’ ongoing mission to connect audiences with India’s musical traditions and witnessed close to 1100 Bangaloreans.
With a history of organising concerts in various cities, including Delhi, Noida, Gurugram, Faridabad, Lucknow, Kanpur, Nagpur, Madurai, Pune, Kolkata, Chennai, New York, and San Francisco, this year marks the 25th anniversary of HCL Concerts’ unwavering support for Indian music.
In the vibrant city of Bengaluru, the show opened with the timeless masterpiece “Gulon Mein Rang Bhare,” setting the stage for an evening filled with musical brilliance. She sang classics like, “Ranjish Hi Sahi”, “Aaj Jane Ki Zidd Na Karo”, “Dile-e-Nadan”, “Mohabbat Karne Wale” and many other songs. Furthermore, she presented her two popular songs, “Kalank” and “Tere Hawale,” and gracefully concluded the Ghazal event by performing the song “Aaj Jaane Ki Zid na Karo”.
Accompanying Shilpa Rao were Dilshad Khan on Sarangi, Mani Bharadwaj on tabla, Deepak Marathe on harmonium, Anil Chawla on keys, and Sancheth Suvarna on sound.
Expressing her sentiments about the event, Shilpa Rao shared that ghazal music has a devoted following in Bangalore and it’s always a delight to perform for such an involved audience.
“Being part of HCL Concerts, with its 25-year dedication to promoting Indian music, is a true honour. HCL Concerts excels in nurturing Indian talents and connecting audiences with our musical traditions—an admirable commitment,” said Shilpa Rao.
Reflecting on the Ghazal night, HCL Concerts Head Anshul Adhikari said for over 25 years, HCL has been unwavering in its commitment to intertwining India’s cultural heritage with enthusiasts.
“This event exemplifies our dedication to preserving and promoting India’s musical legacy. Ghazal maestros, much like Shilpa ji, play a vital role in preserving and elevating this musical form, contributing significantly to our nation’s artistic capacities. Our heartfelt thanks to the city of Bengaluru and all music enthusiasts who made this evening truly memorable,” said HCL Concerts Head Anshul Adhikari.
About the artist
Shilpa Rao’s Bollywood journey began with “Tose Naina” from Anwar (2007). She gained fame with “Khuda Jaane” from Bachna Ae Haseeno, winning the Best Female Singer at Star Screen Awards 2009. Her collaboration with Ilaiyaraaja for “Mudi Mudi” in Paa earned her nominations at Filmfare, Star Screen, and IIFA Awards. Hit songs like ‘I Feel Good,’ ‘Anjaana Anjaani,’ ‘Ishq Shava,’ ‘Malang,’ ‘Meherbaan,’ and ‘Manmarziyan’ followed.
Shilpa is the sole Indian artist to have performed at Coke Studio, Pakistan. Her renditions of “Bulleya” and the Ghazal “Aaj Jaane Ki Zidd” in Ae Dil Hai Mushkil garnered global acclaim. She even earned a Grammy nomination in the ‘Best Global Music Album’ category for Anoushka Shankar’s “Love Letters.” Her recent hits include “Kaavaalaa” from the movie “Jailer,” starring Rajinikanth, and “Chaleya” and “Not Ramaiya Vastavaiya” from the movie “Jawan”, featuring Shah Rukh Khan.
About HCL Concerts:
The conservation and promotion of India’s art and cultural heritage are very close to HCL’s heart. To this end, HCL has been organizing HCL Concerts for 25 years, dedicated to nurturing and promoting talent rooted in the glorious heritage of Indian music and dance.
Concerts under the umbrella of HCL Concerts are organized in Delhi NCR, Lucknow, Nagpur, Madurai, Chennai, Kanpur, Kolkata, Pune and Bengaluru in India and New York and San Francisco in the US regularly throughout the year. Over 2200 artists have graced this platform and have contributed towards reinvigorating the Indian classical performing arts.
Over the years, more platforms have been developed to contribute to the growth of the Indian performing arts ecosystem. Most notable of these are HCL Concerts Baithak – a series of virtual performances by accomplished and upcoming Indian classical music and dance artists, HCL Concerts Soundscapes – showcasing independent and inclusive music from across the Indian landscape including genres like Sufi, Folk and Indie-pop.
