A Concert For My Dad

A Concert for Sant Satbachan Singh Deoora

A musical tribute to my father, Sant Satbachan Singh Ji, was held on 13th July 2008 at Namdhari Sikh Sangat Southall, in the form of a Sangeet Samelhan (musical gathering). This heartfelt three-hour concert featured a diverse array of artists, with a special Santoor solo  in honour of Sant Ji’s legacy. The evening was a beautiful reflection of Sant Ji’s life, which was deeply rooted in meditation, sangeet, and kirtan.

The musical journey commenced with Ranbir Singh (Namdhari), who delivered a captivating performance of Raga Jaitshree on the Taus. Ranbir, one of the few artists who play the Taus at this exceptional level, presented a dynamic and expressive rendition, accompanied by Gurpal Singh on the tabla.

Next, Kiranpal Singh took the stage for his Santoor recital, performing Raga Des. His performance was filled with deep emotion and reverence, as the Santoor echoed the feelings Kiranpal holds for his father. Incorporating various raga malas, Kiranpal’s presentation was further enriched by Hiren Chhate, a disciple of Yogesh Samsi, on tabla.

The vocal presentation of the evening was equally delightful and captivating. Dr. Vajay Rajput rendered a beautiful khayal in Raga Maru Bihag, followed by light compositions in Hori Kafi. His powerful voice and dynamic expressions held the audience in rapt attention.

The final act of the evening was an evocative kirtan performance by Ustad Harbhajan Singh, accompanied by Ustad Gurdev Singh, Ranbir Singh, Satwinder Singh, Sarabjit Singh, and Narinderpal Singh on tablas. The kirtan group presented two rare shabads (hymns), which are seldom performed in today’s time, offering a poignant conclusion to the evening.

Speeches honouring Sant Ji were given by Sukhpal Singh Bhatti, Sant H S Randhawa, and Sulkhan Singh, president of the UK Namdhari Sangat. The evening was a fitting and moving tribute to Sant Satbachan Singh Ji’s life and legacy.

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