Morning Melody

After last night’s torrential downpour, the song, ‘Vo kagaz ki kashti, Vo baarish ka pani” playing on Kishor Babani’s mobile (right) could not have sounded better. But more than that, Jagjit Singh’s sonorous voice, wafting through the still morning air, harkening back memories of lost childhood and of days gone by, had a profound and spellbinding effect while we exercised quietly.
This was Kishor’s tribute to Jagjit Singh who passed away in Mumbai two days ago. For once, all the songs he played today were those of the ghazal maestro. Yesterday, when he was accosted by some ladies for playing some racy dance numbers instead of mourning the singer’s death, his reply was typical: “Jagjit Singh hasn’t reached heaven yet. He is on the way. Tomorrow when he reaches, I’ll play his songs.” So Kishor kept his promise – with a special compilation of the most melodious ghazals and geets ever rendered by the singer.
Funnily though, barely a week back, Kishor was pulled up by the same ladies for playing Jagjit Singh’s ‘Tum itna kyun muskura rahe ho’ (from Arth) and had to quickly switch to a more acceptable but forgettable la-re-lappa ditty. On another day, the latter could become poison to the ears and he would be seen frantically scrolling for ‘golden oldies’ – never too sure what would appeal to whom and when. In that sense, he has got himself an unenviable job – that of a DJ, who always tries to please everybody, but cannot ever succeed.
Meanwhile, Hari Singh Shekhawat (above) is in the last stages of preparation for day-after-tomorrow’s Lonavala trip. This morning, he received two more confirmations. He'd be paying an advance for the bus later in the day. Some more loose ends still need to be tied up. A clearer picture should emerge tomorrow.
Renu Babani:
The melodious, sweet and spiritual voice of Jagjit Singh resonated the Garden today, as people continued with their regular walk and we attended our routine exercise. Strange, how life goes on, whether the person is around or not. Jagjit Singh, a maestro, his voice so mesmerising, and the words of his ghazals... so meaningful. He has gone to his Heavenly Abode, but his music shall remain with us forever.
Regarding the Lonavala trip, our positive attitude has paid off. We are enough people at this point, considering the number of rooms alloted. So come Saturday early morning, we shall be boarding that bus and on our way to cool weather and scenic beauty. Away from the chaos and bustle of our everyday lives and definitely rejuvenating for everyone.