By Raj Singh

OAKLAND, Ca: It was indeed a Starry affair at the Calvin Simmons theatre last week, the honor for organizing this Punjabi. Musical night which will be an annual affair goes to M/s Sardul Kwatra and Drs, Hundal and Sandhu. “Amongst them, they painstakingly ‘build the show brick by brick.

 Maestro Kwatra did a wonderful Work of conducting the orchestra, which was composed of Amex the ball was set rolling by International film star Kabir Bedi ‘Who in his deep resonant voice, ‘introduced the show.

Diler Mehndi and A’S, Chandan stole the hearts of the audience ‘with their number “Nai Resan Punjab dian.” His is a voice which needs to be nurtured and promoted. Fall credit to Maestro Kwatra for giving exposure to this fine young man, Diler is the younger brother of Ustad Shamsher Singh, who ‘accompanies Kwatra on ‘tabla’. ‘Ms, Suchitra Joadder, whose native tongue is not Punjabi, certainly did credit to herself by rendering an old Punjab song, Kusum Kalra the Bay Area’s melody queen indeed, not only has a melodious voice, but her stage appearance is excellent. From India’s Hollywood also known as “Bollywood” came Rama Vij, the dusky heroine of that hit Punjabi film, “Chan Pardesi.” She sang a number (hard to believe) which was one of the highlights of the evening. Kaajal Kiran the dimunitive star of “Hum Kisi say Kum Nahin” did her ‘nakhras’ in a Mujra dance. Neera Singh the upcoming star from Hollywood did well.

Believe it or not, (like Ripley’s) Dara Singh played master of ceremonies (not wrestling) and was he great? Yes he was just superb. Well, a lot of us saw the hidden side of his personality.

Gurdeep Grewall and Pammi from L.A entertained all to popular Punjabi folk tunes. Ms. Gurdep is also gifted with an excellent voice. Hope someone promotes her Pammi with his Bhangra rhythm thrilled all present.

The finale came with Chandan and Mehndi who regaled the audience with another sound wave from Punjab.

All the artists performed the Bhangra as a closing item of the show. How does one judge the show, by the strength of the audience or what happened on stage? Well, on both counts. There was enough of both.

Well done M/s Kwatra, Hundal and Sandhu and good luck for the next time.

Article extracted from this publication >>  September 11, 1987