Smita Thackeray, the esteemed social activist and founder of the Mukkti Foundation, orchestrated a grand musical event on January 23, 2024, in Mumbai, commemorating the 98th birth anniversary of the legendary Shiv Sena supremo, Balasaheb Thackeray. This event was a testament to her unwavering commitment to cultural heritage and social causes.
The evening, meticulously curated by Bina Aziz, unfolded as a powerful homage to the Tiger of Marathi Resurgence. Attendees were treated to a moving tribute to Balasaheb Thackeray, a man deeply fond of music and closely connected to the film industry. The musical concert featured stellar performances by renowned artists, including Talat Aziz, Jaspinder Narula, Harshdeep Kaur, Sanjeevni Bhelande, Shreyas Puranik, Amrita Chatterjee, and Sneha Astunkar, Nandesh Upam.
Adding a unique touch to the celebration, maestro Roop Kumar Rathod recorded a special song for the occasion, written by Israr Ansari. The event was further elevated by the mesmerizing tunes of Nitin Shankar’s Orchestra, bringing a symphonic touch to the evening and enhancing the emotional depth of the performances.
Balasaheb Thackeray’s deep appreciation for melodies and cultural expressions was well-known, and this initiative aimed to capture the essence of his connection with music, offering a heartfelt homage to the late leader’s multifaceted personality. Through this initiative, Smita Thackeray sought to celebrate the enduring impact of Balasaheb’s life and the role music played in shaping his cultural and political journey.
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In her own words, Smita Thackeray expressed, “As we gathered to celebrate Balasaheb Thackeray’s 98th birth anniversary, the event became a heartfelt tribute, weaving together melodies, memories, and the indomitable spirit of Marathi resurgence. It’s an honor to pay homage to the legacy of a leader who shaped our history.”
Renowned artist Talat Aziz shared a touching anecdote, revealing Balasaheb Thackeray’s love for his ghazal ‘Kaise Sukun Paaoon,’ which the leader fondly remembered and requested him to sing. Harshdeep Kaur reflected on Balasaheb’s courage and indomitable spirit, emphasizing his enduring inspiration. Sonu Nigam expressed his honor in participating, aiming to resonate with Balasaheb’s love for music. Govinda reminisced about Balasaheb’s charismatic personality and love for music, while Jeetendra recognized the event as a poignant homage to a visionary leader.
This grand musical celebration not only paid tribute to the iconic Balasaheb Thackeray but also served as a reminder of the enduring power of music in preserving and honoring cultural legacies. Through Smita Thackeray’s initiative, Balasaheb’s love for music continues to echo through the melodies, immortalizing his legacy for generations to come.
