Pics: Dayanand Kukkaje
Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru (CLP)
Mangaluru, Nov 24: It was an evening that would have gone down as one of the most memorable in Konkani music, had rain not played the spoilsport. Yet, despite the unexpected November torrent that cut short the celebration, the 100th Musical Nite of music maestro, 'Yodelling King' Melwyn Peris provided a splendid taste of the rich music that marks his long and fruitful journey.
The centenary milestone, a rare achievement in the world of Konkani music, was staged at St Agnes Special School grounds here on Sunday November 23. What set this evening apart was not just the fact that it was Melwyn Peris' 100th Musical Nite, but the massive crowd that gathered to witness history being made only for the second time in Konkani music. The ground could accomodate nearly 3,000 people, yet, it was not enough, as lots more were seen standing about and simply revelling in the brief but enjoyable event.
The evening began on a thumping note with Melwyn Peris being brought in an open jeep procession to the venue, amidst cheering and applause from his fans. Thereafter, colourful balloons were released into the air, accompanied by a dazzling display of fireworks, thus marking a symbolic beginning to the show.
The chief guests for the evening were MLC Ivan D'Souza, MLA J R Lobo, president of Konkani Sahitya Academy Roy Castelino, Mandd Sobhann Gurkar and Konkani activist Eric Ozario, Daijiworld founder Walter Nandalike, Abu Dhabi-based entrepreneur Leo Rodrigues, entrepreneur Rohan Monteiro, Michael D'Souza, 'Konkan Myna' Meena Rebimbus and parish priest of Bendore church Fr Antony Serrao.
Addressing the gathering, Walter Nandalike commended Melwyn Peris on achieving the centenary milestone in music and said, "In the history of Konkani music, as a composer and singer, if there is anyone after Wilfy Rebimbus who has contributed so massively to the field, it is Melwyn Peris. The milestone of 100 is not an easy achievement in any field. Even in cricket, the batsman feels the nervous 90s and when he gets from 99 to 100, he acknowledges to the cheering crowd by lifting his bat and helmet. Similarly, let us give a standing ovation to Melwyn Peris." At this, digitaries on the stage and the crowd stood up and gave a thundering applause to Peris.
He recalled how Melwyn Peris had experienced tragedies in his personal life, including the loss of his brother Denis Peris and a major accident not long back. "Despite this, he rose like a warrior and defeated every obstacle. He could do this because of his belief in the power of god, hard work and efforts."
He also urged MLC Ivan D'Souza and MLA J R Lobo to put in efforts to recognize the contribution of Melwyn Peris by reccommending him for a state award. Walter wished the singer-composer good luck for his future endeavours and hoped that he would continue to entertain Konkani music lovers for a long time to come.
One video album ('Sofia') and two audio albums ('Melodia' and 'Tararampam') by Melwyn Peris were released during the event.
Bishop of Mangaluru diocese Dr Aloysius Paul D'Souza who graced the event later said, "100 years is a special occasion. All kinds of 100 years are celebrated in a grand manner. In the same way, the centenary musical nite is also being celebrated with the same spirit and enthusiasm. This is great achievement indeed."
The bishop further said that right from childhood, Peris had shown great inclination to music, winning prizes even at the young age of 6 years. "Since then he has not looked back. He was active in church choirs, and has always given back to people and the church the talent that god has given him," he said.
The bishop honoured Melwyn Peris and 'Sangeeth Guru' Joel Pereira who arranged the music on the occasion.
Melwyn Peris then set the ball rolling with the song 'Turbent Vhaztha', followed by the rendition of 'Chintan' by veteran singer Dr Aparna Mayekar. Singer Rony Crasta entertained the audience with the popular song 'Sofia' and Reena D'Souza rendered 'Ahimsa'.
There was also a dance and song performance of 'Chondrem Udela Molbar' by Robin Sequeira and Zeena Pereira.
The show was interspersed by delightful comic performances by Jerry Rasquinha and team.
Master compere Leslie Rego conducted the show in his inimitable style, together with Titus Noronha.
Other singers like Rony D'Cunha, Anitha D'Souza, Ivy D'Souza, Nestor Pereira, Doreen D'Souza and Lavita Lobo too were scheduled to perform, but the rain gods had other plans. The show had to be stopped abruptly after it started pouring heavily accompanied by thunder and lightning. The crowd returned home, perhaps disappointed, but with the knowledge that more such nites would come their way from the evergreen Melwyn Peris.