TT feels like home

INDIA’S famous “gazal” (love songs) singer Pankaj Udhas said he was so comfortable performing in this country that the Centre of Excellence stage “felt like home in India. “I heard a lot about Trinidad from colleagues who performed here and I was amazed at the warmth and hospitality of the people. It really feels like home man,” he told a cheering audience who came out for his performance on Saturday evening.

Accompanied by five top musicians from India, Udhas belted out some of his most treasured gazals to an audience of approximately 4,000. Among the tunes were “Sab Ko Malin Hai,” “Geeya toe Geeya,” “Toree Toree Piya Karo,” “Chanda Jaisa Rang Hai Tera,” “Sharabhi Nahi,” “Kabhi Asu Kabhi,” “Na Gajhe Ka Haatha,” “Chittee Aye Rey,” “Mitlona Be Naka” and “Aye Mere Go Bandhan.” However, he took the audience completely by surprise when he attempted to sing Ricky Jai’s popular chutney song “Mor Tor.”

The show was punctuated by songs from Veena Gupta, wife of the Indian High Commissioner, Virendra Gutpa. In keeping with the occasion of Phagwa (which will be celebrated in TT on March 27), Gupta performed the song, “Pee Ato Sey Naina Lagey Rey” and other Hindi tunes. Gupta is no stranger to the local stage as she has been performing in North and South Trinidad during the past year.