Pics: Rolling Shutters / Kiran Iyyer
Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru
Mangaluru, Nov 2: A spectacular blend of music, talent and theatrical brilliance enthralled a packed audience as Sumadhur Sangeeth Academy® presented its flagship concert, Sumadhur ‘3’, at the Fr Muller Convention Centre on Sunday, November 1.
Directed by celebrated vocalist, composer and vocal trainer Joshal Sweeda D’Souza, the grand musical extravaganza featured over 400 academy students, delivering an evening of vibrant performances and innovative stage presentations.
The event commenced at 5 pm with a formal convocation ceremony honouring students who excelled in their pre-grade, grade 1 and grade 2 examinations, besides recognising the academy’s top academic achievers.
Sweeda Kulshekar compered the opening ceremony, following which Joshal D’Souza expressed her heartfelt gratitude to the sponsors and supporters who made the grand event possible.
The occasion was graced by an eminent gathering of dignitaries, including NRI entrepreneur and philanthropist Michael D’Souza; St Aloysius Deemed to be University Vice-Chancellor Fr Praveen Martis; Bendur Parish Priest Fr Walter D’Souza; Capuchin Province of Karnataka Vicar Provincial Fr Paul Melwyn D’Souza OFM; Catholic Action League (CAL) Bendur Director Fr Arun Lobo; Daijiworld Media Pvt Ltd founder Walter Nandalike; MCC Bank Ltd Chairman Anil Lobo; Karnataka Konkani Sahitya Akademi President Stany Alvares; and renowned singer Joyce Ozario.
Commending the organisers, Fr Walter D’Souza lauded Joshal for using her God-given talent to mentor and nurture the next generation of musicians. He said CAL was proud to collaborate with Sumadhur Sangeeth Academy in promoting budding musical talent and expressed confidence that performing on such a grand platform would remain a cherished lifelong milestone for the young artistes.
A significant highlight of the evening was the launch of the academy’s official website by Walter Nandalike, who praised the institution’s forward-looking vision. Appreciating Joshal’s decision to share the spotlight with her students rather than opt for a solo concert, he described it as an inspiring example of mentorship and commitment to engaging the younger generation. He also welcomed the academy’s digital initiative, which enables audiences to stream and access concert recordings through paid access, describing it as an important technological step forward for the local performing arts sector.
During the formal stage programme, the organisers felicitated Ronald D’Almeida, former president of Catholic Sabha Udupi Deanery, in recognition of his remarkable achievement in raising ?1.23 crore for charitable causes through the Sumadhur concert initiative in Kallianpur.
The evening's main attraction was a captivating two-hour musical journey showcasing the depth and diversity of training imparted by the academy. The performances included a high-energy Konkani trending medley featuring recent chartbusters, followed by a soulful Hindi classical medley paying tribute to legendary vocalists Lata Mangeshkar and Shreya Ghoshal.
An innovative radio-themed segment added a distinctive touch to the programme, featuring popular reality show contestants from Daijiworld Star Singer and Konkani Melody Star. The grand crescendo came when over 250 students took the stage together for a vibrant Baila performance, creating a spectacular visual and musical experience.
Adding further star power to the evening were special guest performances by Prajoth D Sa, the Konkani music sensation from Australia, and Melric D’Souza, the Konkani rockstar from Bengaluru. Both artistes enthralled the audience with their performances. Joshal D’Souza also drew thunderous applause for her distinctive singing, leaving the audience spellbound.
The varied repertoire featured duets, group numbers, choral arrangements and backing vocals, reflecting the academy’s comprehensive approach to music training. Accomplished musicians led by Sanjay Rodrigues provided seamless instrumental accompaniment, while energetic choreography by Urban Groove added dramatic flair and visual appeal to the stage presentations.
Emcees Komal Jenifer and Nelson Monis won widespread appreciation for their poetic narration and engaging stage presence. Adding to the evening’s appeal, student emcees trained by Leeza Kiran confidently hosted several sub-sequences of the show, showcasing their anchoring skills.
Concert convenor Prakash D’Souza ensured the smooth execution of the elaborate production, which was curated and directed by Stany Bela.
With over 400 student performers, accomplished guest artistes, innovative musical presentations and impressive stage production, Sumadhur ‘3’ emerged as a landmark musical celebration in Mangaluru. The event not only showcased the immense potential of young musical talent but also set a new benchmark for music education, mentorship and concert production in the region.