Karnataka - Hubli-Dharwad   

Effortless ease at 95

Staff Correspondent

Gangubai Hangal

HUBLI: Having had a musical career of 75 long years, she still wants to sing — something her old age rarely permits. And whenever she finds the environment favourable, she doesn't hesitate to make an attempt.

That's what nonagenarian vocalist Gangubai Hangal who celebrated her 95th birthday on Monday did after being felicitated by none other than Deputy Chief Minister B.S. Yediyurappa on behalf of the around ten lakh citizens of Hubli-Dharwad.

In a programme well-attended by religious heads, artistes, writers, political leaders and 700 artistes from in and around Hubli-Dharwad, Ms. Hangal was touched by the show of warmth and affection and could not decline the request for a song.

Although the rendition of "rag Aboghi" was concise, it was good enough to set the tone for the evening. Gangubai's spirited rendition certainly made an impact on the hundreds of artistes who enthralled the audience with their lively performances.

The people had a cultural treat for about two-and-half hours.

There were group songs and dances, folk dances of Karnataka and a few other States and a "qawwali" on Ms. Hangal herself.

Sujata School of Dance, Shantala Academy of Dance and Music, Vasantnagar Mahila Mandal, Students of SJMV Women's College, Nupur Nritya Vihar and Gujarat Mahila Mandal were some of the associations and institutions that added colour to the celebrations.

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