IT'S NEVER TOO LATE
Part 3
The effect of his singing swept the whole garden area. Everyone stopped in their tracks. His voice mesmerized everyone. All of sudden Subroto Banerjee became the hero of the Music Lovers Club and the garden community. People roared from across the perfectly manicured lawns. Someone from the crowd reacted and asked him to sing an old number when he finished singing the first song. The session went on for thirty minutes. Finally, Mr. Bhatia had to intervene.
“Friends we need to stop Subroto. He is an excellent singer, but there are others who are waiting for their turn. Do you mind Subroto?”
“Not at all. In fact I am sorry for taking more than the usual quota of time.”
Cheers echoed around as Subroto stepped down the dais. He found a perfect platform to vent his feelings. He did not look anywhere during his performance because his eyes were closed. But now he saw everyone clapping and whistling at his mesmerizing voice.
He received a standing ovation. Life would never be the same for Subtroto Banerjee.
After his first performance it became the most happening event. Gradually the Saturday Music & Entertainment event grew in numbers. The credit went to Subroto, who wooed even youngsters with his soft yet contemporary voice.
The Saturday evening extravaganza now became an integral part of Subroto’s life. On some of the Saturdays even Gayatri accompanied him. She heard soft appreciative words after Subroto performed, bringing a painful lump in her throat. She choked with pride.
“Subu, God has been kind. At least you have made a beginning. I am sure you still have a lot to achieve. I wish you the best. I am proud of you.”
“All this happened because of your support and courage.”
“Yes, but don’t forget the Almighty.”
Subroto smiled at his wife’s attachment to God.
Months passed, Subroto’s music career reached stagnation. He was happy entertaining the small crowd but at heart he was thirsty for a bigger role. He wanted to entertain the whole world.
His frustration came to end one winter evening. It was Saturday and he was performing on the dais with a record number of people watching him. Unaware that destiny was about to shower on him the most precious gift he could ever ask for.
Outside the garden, a car suddenly came to a halt with a loud noise. The owner and the driver came out of the car, looked at the left rear tire which had burst.
“Kalim, fix the tire while I fetch a cigarette.”
“Okay, Malik sahab.”
But Malik did not move. The melodious voice that floated out of garden stopped him in his tracks.
“Kalim, forget the tire. Find out who is singing.”
Kalim dropped the spanner on the ground and ran inside the garden. When he returned after a long time, Malik saw a man accompanying him.
“Malik Sahab, he is Mr. Banerjee. He is the singer.”
“Oh. Mr. Banerjee you have a wonderful voice.”
“Thank you …..”
“I am Malik, owner of Malik Music.”
“Oh, yes. My Guru and your father were close friends.”
“Is it? Who was your Guru?”
“Pandit Prem Chandra.”
Malik immediately caught hold of his ear in awe and respect.
“No wonder. You have those qualities in you. Mr. Banerjee, I am about to launch a new music album. I would be happy if you can sing two songs for me. Later we can work on a solo album. Would you be interested?”
“Yes of course. I am honored. It will be a privilege to sing for your company.”
“I am sorry. I know this is not the right way to do business but I am afraid your singing has mesmerized me.”
“Thank you Mr. Malik”
“You can call me Adi. Here is my card. Please come to my studio tomorrow. If you want I can send Kalim to pick you up from your house.”
“No Adi. That won’t be necessary. I will reach your studio on time.”
After that chance meeting Subroto did not look back. In a short period he earned a reputation of a great singer. His albums sold like hot cakes. His friends, family and everyone close to him were happy. For Gayatri it was a like a dream come true.
“It is because of you I was able to fulfill my passion. My success belongs to you,” Subroto told his wife one day.
“No, Subu. I believe if you are talented, hard working and passionate success will eventually come to you.”
- SEND LALIT NAVANI A MESSAGE -