PanchamMagic!

I had the privilege of attending one of PanchanMagic’s shows last night. This was the second one I attended and must say, was completely blown away! Whats so different about the show you ask? Well, for starters, its not one of those shows where novice singers try to sing Pancham’s compositions. Coz anything other than the original rendition is quite lifeless. In this show, people who have worked closely with Pancham share their experiences, memories, anecdotes about him. His music is scrutinized and discussed upon. Each guest on the show provides an insight into the legend’s love for life, and music.

The show delved into Pancham’s love for food, his style of mixing western and classical music, his bizarre music-making techniques, and even his last days, when the industry chose to walk out on him. What always fascinated me about Pancham’s music was his use of different instruments, or even everyday objects. Whether it is a comb used in Padosan, or tinkling of glasses in Chura Liya, or even an empty bottle! He could produce music out of anything. Why, on one occasion he’d stood in his balcony the entire night to record the sound of raindrops! And yesterday’s show only added to my RD knowledge!

An interesting trivia that Mr. Pravesh Sippy shared; during the recording of any Pancham song, Kishore Kumar was always called in at the last moment.  He explained that maybe it was because Kishore Kumar would always take over the song in such a way even without rehearsing, that they feared he would steal the thunder if he was rehearsed beforehand!

Its amazing how a man can live on so many years in the hearts of his fans by the sheer power of his music. Music so pure and eternal that it grows into you. Music so enjoyable that you can listen to it ceaselessly!