JEDDAH – It was a dream come true for budding musicians last Thursday as they participated in the “New Talent - Musical Extravaganza” at the White Tent Resort here. Producer and director Rohail Khan sponsored the event and gave the young musicians from India, Pakistan and Bangladesh a perfect platform to show off their talent. The five-hour event was attended by over 300 people from different nationalities who thoroughly enjoyed themselves to fresh music, lavish dinner and grand raffle draw. Vice Consul (Welfare) Consulate of Pakistan and Chief Guest Tahseem Haqqi appreciated Khan's efforts to promote inter-community harmony and introduce new talents. Music legends of India and Pakistan — Mohammed Rafi, Kishore Kumar, Lata Mangeshkar, Asha Bhosle, Udit Narayan, Mehdi Hasan, Nur Jahan, Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan — were also given a musical tribute. Urdu linguist Aseem Hanif was introduced by Khan, who spoke about his book “Urdu Lughat,” basically a dictionary that Hanif authored over a period of 10 years after a tedious research. “Drive Safe”, a social welfare project, was formally launched by Khan to spread awareness about adopting necessary precautions while driving. Sara Babul from Bangladesh and Ahmed Khan from Pakistan won the “Sensational Talent” title, Fareed Ali Khan from India and Raeesa Aamir from Pakistan were given the title of “Semi Classical Hope” and Nadim Goshi, Zakaullah Chishti and Azhar Butt were pronounced as established artists. The singers enthralled the audience with their pulsating performances. Khan said he would do his best to support and promote the talented singers. In an on-the-spot competition, trophies were given to Mohammed Khan and Maha for encouraging music and culture. In the grand raffle draw, the lucky ones won Sony 40” LCD Television, HP laptop, Galaxy 2 Tab, Sony music system, Sony HD digital camera, and two Espirit watches. A gift was also handed over to Mrs. and Mr. Saeed Hashmi for being the “Best Couple” and arriving on time for the event. As a good will gesture traditional Ajrak shawls were given to Haqqi and Hanif. Other artistes were also given shawls for their hard work and team spirit. The event was sponsored by Khan, Imran Qureshi of Infinite Solutions, Hanco, Pepsi, PIA, North view and Refco. Technical support was extended by Yahya Ashfaq, Rehan Waheed, Heera Panna Music Band and Lulu Sound Associates. Khan, who hosted the event, acknowledged his team, organizers and co-sponsors for making it memorable and enjoyable.
