“Viswanathan…Velai Vendum!” There’s palpable energy in the packed auditorium. Thunderous applause follows every song. Maybe this is a little past my time, but I’ve rarely seen so many people clap to the beat of a vintage tune with such vigour.
All they have to do is start off the introduction with the name of 60s’ stars such as MGR, Sivaji, and Gemini and soon the shouts begin. “ Paalum Pazhamum!” one gentleman yells repeatedly, hoping that they’ll showcase his favourite song. Another one rolls his eyes and turns to him. “ Nenjam Marapathillai is so much better,” he says, as though he is running the show. A good melody, when it clicks, is never forgotten. And no better show to prove that than Iniyavai 60 organised by Music Lovers Chennai. It covers all the 60s’ delights. From MGR and Sivaji to comedy actor Nagesh, every star is given his due.
And the singers? From theatre to stage shows and a few films here and there, they’ve all made their mark.
While Usha Raj and Krishnaraj are as sweet-sounding as P. Susheela and PBS themselves, Kovai Murali presents some TMS numbers and Jayashree’s vibrant throw is reminiscent of L.R. Eshwari’s standout vocals.
Margazhi season is now running in full steam. Yet, at the intersection of multiple sabhas lies a show like Iniyavai 60 . Sari-clad ladies and men in their best formal shirts sit down and enjoy classic melodies, clapping their hands to the peppy Sankarabharanam and swaying to a heartening Shuddha Dhanyasi amidst a cool December breeze.
