In his career spanning more than three decades, with two Grammys and seven National Film Awards, maestro AR Rahman had never performed at Mumbai’s iconic NCPA, the National Centre for Performing Arts. That changed on Saturday, September 19, when the composer took the stage at the Jamshed Bhabha Theatre with Sufiana Safar, a 100-minute journey through the spirituality and mysticism of Sufi music.
A DEVOTIONAL OPENING
The evening began with an ensemble from his KM Music Conservatory, comprising eight singers, several musicians on various instruments and a senior qawwali singer. They opened with the chant La ilaha illallah, the central Islamic declaration of monotheism. It flowed into Alla Hu, Ek Onkar and Ali Ali Maula, setting a meditative tone for the night.
A MUMBAI MEMORY
When Rahman walked on, the hall erupted in applause. He used the moment to look back on his early days in the city. “I came to Mumbai in the 90s. I didn’t know anybody here. I could speak Tamil. And I remember, I went to the Haji Ali Saab shrine and I was sitting there and wondering about my future. Today I am singing this song about Him, in one of the best concert halls in Mumbai. I feel very blessed. Thank you for all your support. I believe that Haji Ali is a very cultural place where I have seen people, lovers, vendors, and the culmination of every sect of the society come together. And I have been honoured to have composed this song for Haji Ali Saab.” He then launched into Piya Haji Ali from Fiza.
SUFI CLASSICS AND CROWD FAVOURITES
The setlist moved between devotional pieces and film favourites. Among the songs Rahman performed were Phool Khile Bagiyan Mein, Watto Izzo Mantasha Wattu Zillu Mantasha, Chaap Tilak Sab Chinni Re Mose Naina Milaike and Dum Dum Ali Ali.The loudest applause came for Sajna Ke Sajde Mein and for his Sufi numbers from films including Arziyan (Delhi 6), Khwaja Mere Khwaja (Jodhaa Akbar), Kun Faya Kun (Rockstar) and Piya Milenge (Raanjhanaa).
SIVAMANI’S PERCUSSION SHOWCASE
Legendary percussionist Sivamani accompanied Rahman on stage through the show. His set was a highlight of the concert, and the hall roared with applause at his skilful showcase.
A DELAYED START, A GRACIOUS APOLOGY
The show began 15 minutes late due to technical issues. Rahman apologised from the stage for the delay and thanked the audience for supporting him. The evening was attended by many celebrities.