Revisiting the bygone, ‘Old is Gold’ a ‘ganamela’ troupe formed by playback singer K P Udayabhanu for the revival of yesteryear melodies in Malayalam film music is getting a re-birth. The troupe, that was dormant for the past two-and-a-half years is set to make a comeback as part of observing his first death anniversary. It was founded way back in 1984 by the singer, and inactive during the time he had fallen sick and after his death in early 2014.
“With the relaunch, we are planning to continue the programme presentation by the troupe on a regular basis and the first one is scheduled on January 26. During the inaugural, playback singers P Susheela Devi and Durga Raju, who were part of the troupe during its formation will be present,” said Rajiv Udayabhanu, vice-chairman of K P Udayabhanu Foundation, which is conducting the commemorative meeting, award presentation and cultural evening called ‘Kananachaya’ at VJT Hall, Thiruvananthapuram. In the founding year of the troupe, noted singers KPAC Sulochana, Kamukara Purushothaman, Brahmanandan, C O Anto, B Vasantha, M S Naseem, Amachal Ravi, Chandrasekhar and M S Ravi were members. The re-launch of the troupe will be conducted by Home Minister Ramesh Chennithala.
For the ‘Old is Gold’ ‘ganamela’, as many as 20 singers are expected to perform. The first-ever award for the best music performer will be received by playback singer P Jayachandran. The Foundation is contemplating bringing back the music school formed by Udayabhanu.
M A Baby MLA will deliver the commemorative lecture and a documentary on Udayabhanu ‘Udaya Ragam’ will be screened. A dance performance by Rajashree Warrier is also scheduled.
A CD containing Udayabhanu’s songs will be released by K Muraleedharan MLA. The entire programme will be inaugurated by Chief Minister Oommen Chandy at 5 pm.