If you are a fan of the late Mohammed Rafi, one of the finest playback singers of the Hindi film industry, you could be an admirer of Bankim Pathak as well.
Since the death of the legendary singer 30 years ago, Bankim has been hailed as his alter ego, with the same mellifluous voice- well, almost.
You may be a person of Indian, Pakistani, Bangladeshi, Nepali, Middle Eastern or European origin, but if you are into the ‘Rafi kind of music,’ you would find the forthcoming concert irresistible.
Bankim is getting ready to present Ek Yaad Rafi Ke Baad, an evening of melody at the Mahatma Gandhi Centre in Mt Eden Terrace (145, New North Road) on June 24 from 7 pm.
New Zealand singer Umesh Sharma, who is organising and directing the concert, described the visiting artiste as his ‘role model.’
“I am confident that the members of the extended Indian community will support the programme by being a part of the audience and listen to great music,” he said.
A protégé of Professor Sudhir Khandekar, Bankim had formal training from Navinbhai Shah and Krishnakant Parikh, popular artistes of the time. His career began with a concert with Anila Gohil, leading to the launch of Ek Yaad Rafi Ke Baad, specialising in immortal songs of Rafi.
Avish Sharma, a budding singer and son of Umesh, Keyboard player Bhupendra Patel and Rhythmist Shabbir Kumar will accompany Bankim at the Concert.
What: Ek Yaad Rafi Ke Baad, Tribute to Mohammed Rafi
By Whom: Bankim Pathak
When: Friday, June 24 at 7pm
Where: Mahatma Gandhi Centre, 145 New North Road,
Eden Terrace, Auckland
Tickets: $35 (VIP) & $25
Contact: Umesh Sharma on 021-1111055
Email: umeshrima@yahoo.co.nz
