Symphony New Hampshire made history on Saturday when it debuted the first-ever Bollywood songs played on Western instruments only with award-winning singer Anuradha Palakurthi-Juju on Oct .21, 2023 in Nashua, NH.

This first-of-its-kind concert featured Bollywood favorites conducted by Symphony New Hampshire Music Director Roger Kalia in the packed Nashua Center for the Arts Auditorium in Nashua, NH.

Watching Anuradha perform with a full orchestra, one was transported to the old days when the classic Bollywood music was performed to the accompaniment of non-electronic music. It was a unique idea that took months of preparation and out-of-the-box thinking. Her exceptional singing talent was well supported by the amazing orchestra. 

The music was arranged by several leading Indian composers. “They worked for over nine months from different geographies. Their meticulous efforts were on display,” said Ms. Palakurthi. “Thank you Kamlesh Bhadkamkar, Neville Franco, Ishaan Chhabra, Balasubramanian G, and D J Sparr”.

Male vocals were provided by Mithlesh Patankar. They sang a wide range of songs. about 20 songs and Bollywood medleys.  They included several popular numbers,  Roz Shaah Aati, Lag Ja Gale, Naina Barse, Pehla Nasha, Shola Jo Bhadke, Jaadu Hai Nasha Hai, Chandan Sa Badan, Tum Jo Mil Gaye Ho, Chaiyya Chaiyya, Hum Dil De Chuke, Pyaar Hua Ikraar Hua, and Piya Tu, among others.

For many, it was the first time they attended a Symphony New Hampshire concert. For the Symphony artists, it was the first time playing Bollywood tunes. It was a great match that brought much joy to the performers and the audience. Anuradha said she owed a lot to her Guru. Smt Aarti Anklikar who had worked with her tirelessly to make sure the concert is par excellence. 

Anuradha’s concerts are always unique and this one set a very high bar. We hope to see more such concerts in the future.