Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, Apr 11: Jammu and Kashmir Academy of Art, Culture and Languages (JKAACL) celebrated birthday of KL Saigal by organizing “Musical Tribute” programme at KL Saigal Hall, here.
Prof Rita Jitendra, renowned artist, social activist, writer and former Secretary was the chief guest. VK Sambyal, Director Radio Kashmir, Jammu presided over the function. Dr Arvinder Singh Amn, Additional Secretary, JKAACL was also present in the presidium.
KL Saigal was born on April 11, 1904 in Jammu. His father Amar Chand was a Tehsildar at the Court of Raja of Jammu and Kashmir. His mother Kesaroo was a deeply religious lady who was very fond of music. She introduced Saigal to music. Saigal started acting as Sita in the Ramleela celebration in Jammu when he was around 10 years of age. He acted in 36 films–29 Hindi and 7 Bengali. He has sung about 150 film songs and about 100 non-film songs. His non-film songs comprise ghazals, bhajans and hori. He has given voice to the creation of Ghalib.
While speaking on the occasion, Prof Rita Jitendra said that KL Saigal has contributed in the field of Indian Cinema in acting, direction and playback singing at its initial stage and succeeded in laying a strong foundation for future cinema.
She said that the singers through melodious voice presented by the songs sung by the legend KL Saigal. She further threw light on the life and achievements of KL Saigal particularly the struggling period of Saigal’s young age. She also shared her personal and family experiences and recalled the moments of his company.
While speaking, VK Sambyal said that KL Saigal was a famouns singer and the songs sung by him are largely demanded by the radio listeners including youth of the present society.
The singers who performed include Rita Khadyal, Anil Tickoo, Indu Bala and Ravi Raghuvanshi. The rhythm was provided by Kamal Sharma (Dholak), Sunil Sharma (Synth) and Karan Malhotra (Tabla).The prgoamme was composed by Ravi Sharma, senior artist, composer and Santoor Maestro.
Earlier, Dr Arvinder Singh Amn presented the welcome address.
The programme was conducted by Pankaj Sharma, renowned artist and vote of thanks was presented by Ashok Gupta, Editor Dogri.
Among others present were Suraj Singh, Harbans Singh, Padam Dev Singh, Madhvi, Vinod Sharma, Rakesh Kona, Rupali Rai, Esha Balgotra, Ihadat Salaria and Nazia Tabassum.
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