Jaya Ho, a weekly retro programme showcasing the best of old Hindi numbers at Black and white Resto Bar, Hotel Residency, completed its 100th week on Friday
A dimly-lit club, a group of old Hindi film song buffs comprising couples, friends and families — sounds improbable? Ladies clad in sarees and salwar suits and a few people in the 50-plus age group, in a posh club, in the city of Chennai — sounds more improbable? With a mix of all the improbabilities, Jaya Ho was hitting a milestone in its trademark style — great music coupled with the club ambiance.
Almost two years ago, who would have thought that such an unlikely format would have stood the test of time, making the place one of the hot spots for all those looking to unwind, albeit with a classic, vintage style. But, the packed club was testimony to the fact that melody can thrive in even the most unlikely venues.
It was a usual Friday night at the Black and White Resto Bar at Hotel Residency. And it wasn’t surprising that there was an added revelry in the atmosphere. After all, it was the 100th week of the programme. Regular visitors and a few new ones added support to the show by cheering continuously throughout.
Featuring renowned stage performer and playback singer Jaya Rajagopal, who was accompanied by J S Shekar, it was yet again an evening of lilting melodies — solos and duets.
Known as Chennai’s Asha Bhosle, Jaya’s programmes have always showcased her ability to modulate her voice for a wide array of songs originally rendered by singers like Lata Mangeshkar, Asha Bhosle, Geeta Dutt and Shamshad Begum. Jaya Ho’s 100th week presented the best of the past, along with a sprinkling of a few recent hits.
From Saiyaan dil mein aana (Bahaar) to Main pareshaan (Ishaqzaade), Jaya enthralled listeners with her versatility, straddling with ease the genres, moods and tempos. Effectively supporting her was J S Shekar, who rendered solo hits like O Saathi Re (Muqaddar Ka Sikander), and in duets Abhi na jao (Hum Dono) and Jaaneman jaaneman (Chhoti Si Baat).
Undoubtedly the highlight of the evening was the evocative rendition of Lambi judaai (Hero) as an ode to Pakistani singer Reshma, who passed away recently.