Delhiites were treated to the 80s Bollywood song Jimmy Jimmy Aaja Aaja by Bappi Lahiri, sung by legendary Russian singer Mikhail Turetsky’s choir during their first performance in India. Gaining loud cheers on the cult classic, the band, which is currently on tour, performed in Delhi on the occasion of Republic Day. The evening was filled with energetic songs and added a musical touch to the city’s rainy day blues. The 12-member Turetsky’s Choir and Soprano is known for its impressive vocal range, from soprano highs to resonant basso profundo notes. Captivating songs like Bella Ciao, Ot zari do zari, Kalinka Malinka and Ave Maria accompanied with traditional dances brought the sound of Russia to the capital.
Supported by the keyboard, guitar and accordion and sprinkled with dance moves
‘Indians understand our music’Joined by contemporaries from the diplomatic circle, the Russian Embassy celebrated India’s Republic Day with a nod to the mutual energy of the two nations’ music. Supported by the keyboard, guitar and accordion and sprinkled with dance moves, the choir narrated stories through their music which needed no translation. Maestro Mikhail Turetsky shared after the performance, “I heard this music from childhood, and it’s very popular in Russia. It was great fun singing a Bollywood song in India. Indians have been very warm and appreciative of us. Both Indian and Russian music are energetic and I believe today’s concert built a bridge between the two.”
Denis Alipov (L), Russian Ambassador said, “Music perhaps, more than any other art form speaks a language that requires no translation”
‘This act is a gesture of friendship & respect’“It’s a great honour and pleasure for us to welcome you tonight to the concert that Russia has brought on the occasion of the Republic Day of India. As a humble and heartfelt gesture of friendship and respect for this country, with which we share a long tradition of visual goodwill and cultural ability, we are overwhelmed with response. Music perhaps, more than any other art form speaks a language that requires no translation. It brings people together through emotion, memory, and the shared appreciation of beauty,” said Denis Alipov, Russian Ambassador.
It’s wonderful to attend a Russian concert in Delhi. I’m very impressed by the range of genres they have showcased from classical to rock and a Hindi song as well!
Meenu, a Russian teacher
Sopranos of the choir received thunderous rounds of applause as they enraptured audiences
It’s heartwarming to feel your motherland just next to you while being so far away from home. These classic Russian songs are part of our blood! Russian who has been living in Delhi for 11 years
Maria, a
(L-R) Meenakshi Lekhi, Karan Singh, Suket Dhar, Nikhil Mehra
