A recent musical fundraising event, Durbar – by Ragas of Devi, left everyone asking for more.
The event took place on Saturday (November 12) at the Dorothy Winstone Centre and was attended by nearly 400 people. It had the audience enjoy various genres of dance and music from India, the Middle East, South America, NZ and South Africa performed by around 30 artists.
The event endeavoured to support people with disabilities in NZ. Through this event, Devi Sobhana, the director of Ragas of Devi, an established professional singer with roots in South Indian Carnatic music, wanted to bring different abled people to the forefront.
The other highlights of the multi-ethnic dance and music show included children’s live art on stage and an exhibition of products by Ashley from Aspirations (skill training institute for the disabled people of Aotearoa0.
Many dignitaries such as Hon Minister for Diversity, Inclusion and Ethnic Communities Priyanca Radhakrishnan; Member of Parliament Helen White; Hon. Consul of India in Auckland, Bhav Dhillon, and Chairperson of the Bhartiya Samaj Charitable Trust, Jeet Suchdev, among others, graced the occasion.
Sharing her experience of the show, Radhakrishnan said, “Durbar by Ragas of Devi was a showcase of music and dance from across India and worldwide. I'm always blown away by just how much talent we have in our communities here in Aotearoa. I am so happy to have witnessed some stunning performances. I want to mention the beautiful rendition of Chaap Tilak (a ghazal composed and written by 14th-century Sufi mystic Amir Khusro) and a kathak performance by the amazing Charu Chutani.”
The show's organisers couldn't be happier with all the praises coming their way. Said Devi Sobhana, “We had an overwhelming response to the event. People have thoroughly enjoyed the different cultures on stage. I am delighted that we were able to project the cause well to the audience. Such events bring people together to work on social causes that positively impact society. We have been receiving positive and motivating feedback, and this feedback motivates me to do more on my goal of giving back to the community. I feel thrilled to see the encouragement from the community.”
Attendees, too, seemed happy to witness a great show.
Known community leader Suneel Kuncha wrote on his social media account, "Durbar" Ragas of Devi - what an amazing talent and an excellent show. I thoroughly enjoyed it. Thank you, Shobna Devi ji, for organising such an awesome show."
Another attendee Dr Sangeeta Mankal, director and principal dentist at QualityCare Dental, said, “It was an unforgettable evening of entertainment. An excellent effort to bring together various artists, music, and diverse cultures. I feel lucky to have witnessed such immensely talented immigrant and local artists in New Zealand."