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community music event in Melbourne this July will pay tribute to two celebrated figures of Indian cinema and music, with organisers promising an evening centred on nostalgia, classic melodies and cultural connection.
Bangla Niketan of Victoria Inc, a charitable Bengali language school based in Epping, is organising Sadi Ke Sadabahar: Ek Chhoti Si Mulaqat on 25 July 2026 to mark the centenary of music composer Salil Chowdhury and Bengali film icon Uttam Kumar.
According to organisers, the programme will feature distinguished singers performing well known songs from Bengali and Bollywood cinema, with selections drawn from what many regard as the golden era of Indian film and basic music. The event is expected to include songs associated with legendary playback singers including Mohammed Rafi, Kishore Kumar, Talat Mahmood, Mukesh, K J Yesudas, Lata Mangeshkar, Manna Dey, Asha Bhosle and Hemant Kumar.
Organisers say the evening is intended to give audiences an opportunity to revisit older musical traditions and enjoy what they describe as a soulful atmosphere shaped by nostalgia and timeless film music. Performers from Melbourne, Auckland and Kolkata are expected to take part in the live concert.
Salil Chowdhury remains widely recognised for his work across Bengali and Hindi cinema, where his compositions blended folk influences with orchestral arrangements. Uttam Kumar continues to hold a lasting place in Bengali cinema history through performances that shaped the industry during the mid twentieth century.
The organisers said proceeds from the event will support the development of the community language school operated by Bangla Niketan of Victoria Inc. The school has been involved in promoting Bengali language and cultural education among younger generations in Melbourne’s northern suburbs.
The concert will be held at the Ironbark Performing Arts Centre at Craigieburn Secondary College from 5.30pm on Saturday, 25 July 2026. Tickets are priced at $25 and bookings are available online through the QR code and link provided on the official event poster.
Organisers are encouraging supporters of classic Bengali and Bollywood music to attend and help raise funds for the school while supporting a community led cultural initiative.
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