A MUSICAL tribute was paid to Manoj Kumar, aka as ‘the film architect’ and late Mukesh, aka as ‘the playback legend’ on their birth anniversaries respectively by the Indian Institute of Architects on Sunday, 19^th July at Rang Sharda, Bandra. Shying away from his usual demure of only singing on stage, Babla Mehta brought about a whole change in his persona and set the night on fire! From driving away the blues to raising the crescendo to an absolute high, Babla infused excitement for the audiences with panache.

So enticed were the audience that they literally stood on their toes to celebrate the good times. The man simply stole the show as was expected of him. Right from performing like a true-blue artist cum entertainer to being instrumental in making the audience laugh, clap and also sing. Yes, Babla Mehta indeed mesmerized the audiences. No wonder he is critics’ choice as Mukesh’s replica. He sung tracks starring Raj Kapoor to Manoj Kumar as also to the colossal Amitabh Bachchan. Babla Mehta literally transformed the mood of the audience by taking them into the golden era of Indian cinema-heydays of Manoj Kumar’s on-screen magic and Mukesh’s heart warming melodies.

 The chief guest of the evening was lyricist Sameer Anjaan. Incidentally, singer Mukesh was instrumental in giving us Anjaan, the great lyricist and Sameer’s father. Babla Mehta has also sung songs written by Sameer. The versatile RJ Anuraag Pandey amused the audiences with his trademark punch-lines and trivia about ‘Bollywood’ by comparing the show. Dressed in cowboy attire and sleek shoes... boy! Did RJ Anuraag Pandey entertain the audiences! He brought the house down with his Pande-monia!  

The show was also witnessed by actor Anjan Srivastava and ex-sheriif of Mumbai Dr. Jagannathrao Hegde. Actor Anjan Srivastava not the outgoing person but with his trademark style said that the show was splendid as it brought back memories of the golden era of cinema and music besides also listening to Mukesh in his spare time avidly.  As for the ex-sheriff of Mumbai Dr. Jagannathrao Hedge, the humble and noble gentleman that is, invariably is present at each and every event in which Babla Mehta performs. He praised Babla Mehta and his ensemble troupe besides wishing him luck in the future as well.