Mysuru: The five-day Yuva Dasara came to a grand conclusion on Thursday (Oct. 10), with the ‘King of Melodies,’ Padma Vibhushan Dr. Ilaiyaraja, taking the audience on an unforgettable musical journey.

Both those present at the venue and viewers tuning in from home were treated to a spectacular concert as singers rendered some of the maestro’s finest compositions.

Ilaiyaraja’s concert was a blend of songs in Kannada, Hindi, Tamil, and Telugu, showcasing his illustrious career. The concert began on a devotional note with the soulful rendition of “Janani Janani Jagatkarini” from the Tamil film ‘Taayi Mookambikai’, followed by “Amma Amma Yendu Koogidare Mainavireluvudu” in praise of Goddess Kolluru Mookambika. Singer Haricharan then moved the audience with “Om Shivoham,” originally sung by Vijay Prakash from ‘Naan Kadavul’.

After this devotional start, Dr. Ilaiyaraja and his troupe celebrated the spirit of Kannada, with S.P. Charan, son of the late legendary singer S.P. Balasubrahmanyam, delivering the heartwarming “Yentha Soundarya Nodu Namma Karunaada Beedu” from ‘Maatu Tappada Maga’.

 He followed this with the classic “Aakashadinda Jaari” from ‘Januma Janumada Anubandha’, performed alongside singers Vibhavari and Sharath. Charan then returned with his father’s iconic “Santoshakke Haadu Santoshakke” from Geetha, which was met with a thunderous applause from the audience.

Other beloved hits, including “Hele Kogile Impagala” from Namoora Mandara Hoove, “Jeeva Hoovagide Bhava Jenagide,” and “Omkaradi Kande Prema Naadava,” left the audience mesmerised, making the evening an unforgettable celebration of Ilaiyaraja’s timeless music.

Ticket buyers neglected

While the event was a success for officials and politicians, it wasn’t as enjoyable for ticket buyers, who were left disappointed. Many complained of poor seating arrangements, with those who had purchased tickets being pushed to the back, losing the opportunity to watch the concert from the front rows.

Meanwhile, officials and politicians, along with their family and friends, enjoyed front-row seats. This controversy echoed complaints made during A.R. Rahman’s concert, where similar issues were raised.

Five-day mega event

Despite some complaints during the last two days, this year’s Yuva Dasara was a grand success. Performances by Shreya Ghosal, Badshah, Ravi Basrur, A.R. Rahman and Dr. Ilaiyaraja lit up the stage at the sprawling 100-acre venue on Utthanahalli Road.

The District Administration and Police ensured a safe event by maintaining security on the Ring Road and the roads leading to the venue. 

The Forest Department also took proactive measures by closing access to roads leading to the forest atop Chamundi Hill to prevent unlawful activities.