JEDDAH — Expatriates and music lovers attended a melodious evening of “Geet,” “Ghazal,” and comedy at the Close to My Soul concert here recently. The seven-hour event was organized by the Melody Lovers, an expat cultural group, in collaboration with Wow organization. Indian stand-up comedian and winner of the Laughter Challenge Shahabuddin tickled the funny bones of the audience with Deccani jokes. Sabir Habeeb, a student of Ustaad Ghulam Ali Khan, along with local artists entertained everyone with popular numbers like “Woh Jidhar dekh rahe hain,” “Mehfil mein bar bar un par nazar gayee,” and “Hungama hai kiun barpa thodi si jo pheeli hum ney among others. Syed Abdul Rafay sang “Tum Mujhey youn bhulana paoogey,” “Tera Chehrey pey woh jaadu hai,” and “Mai Yamla pagla deewanah itti si baath najana.” In the light of recent elections, songs written and sang on Indian politicians and the political scenario by Rafay and Faisal drew laughter from everyone. During the event few prominent members of Indian Community like Abdul Kadar Memon, Ahmeduddin Owaisi, Syed Khaja Viqaruddin, Syed Khaja Fareed and Mirza Qudrath Nawaz Baig were felicitated for their excellent work in community and social welfare services. Syed Shahab Uddin, artist; Ustad Sabir Habeeb and Mohsin, Ghazal singers; Ustad Ghulam Ali, Tabla master; and Wajid, tambourine were also honored for their presentations. The program was organized by Syed Abdul Rafay and Baig. Abdul Rafay said: “The experience has been amazing and the success of the show was all due to the talented artists and love that the audience showered them with. Our aim is to promote Indian culture and artists. I am impressed with the talent showed by Hyderabadi artists and the audience's response. I had no idea that there are so many music lovers in Jeddah.” Another cultural program featuring more Indian artists will soon be organized here again. The program was sponsored by Worldwide Cargo, Al Jouf travels, Naseem Jeddah polyclinic and Global international travels.
