By Indrawattie Natram

RAIN definitely did not stop the energetic performances of profound playback singer Atif Aslam on Tuesday, May 1 at the Guyana National Stadium, Providence. The entire stadium was transformed into a Bollywood arena as the Indian singer took the stage with his guitar and created everlasting memories for those who attended the mega concert.
Atif Aslam, who was visiting Guyana for the first time, surely won the hearts of many fans as they were seen with slogans, placards and displays demonstrating their love and appreciation for the singer. As he promised, he delivered a four-hour non-stop performance- one that will be remembered for a long time by his Guyanese fans. He displayed much energy, versatility and superb dancing skills on stage.

Aslam wowed the crowd with his entire band which featured lots of guitars promoting his campaign, “Pick up guitars and put down guns.” The amazing sound and lighting effects surely set the mood for the night as many persons were seen near the stage dancing and having a great time. The talented singer melodiously sang popular Bollywood songs as well as oldies and folk classics such as “Mast Kalandar”, “Qawalis” and some of his pop hits.
Starting the night’s performance was Vivek Mishra out of India and the dancers from the Dharmic Nritya Sangh. Lighting and sound for the entire production were provided by Travellers Sounds.

Aslam has taken the world of playback singing by storm in recent years by creating endearing hits songs such as “Pehli Nazar”, “Tu Jaane na”, “Tere Sang Yaara”, “Dil Diyan

Gallan”, “Tera Hone Laga Hoon” and “Main Rang Sharbaton Ka”.
According to President of the Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha, Dr. Vindhya Persaud, the mega concert was a signature event for the Sabha in recognition of the 180th year for the Arrival of Indians to Guyana. She said that the concert was one that was held with a purpose and all proceeds will go towards the Dharmic Rama Krishna School Expansion Project which will involve the construction of a new Secondary School and additional facilities. Meanwhile, over the weekend the Sabha will be hosting several events. There will be a special Ramayan Festival at the Oceanview Mandir Compound tomorrow aimed at Celebrating the Ramayan Traditions. There will also be cultural events at the Tain Campus, Berbice today and at the Anna Regina Mandir and West Berbice tomorrow to mark the Arrival of Indians to Guyana.