August 11, 2002

It was a concert with a difference — the gathering consisted mostly of multinational and business organization heads rather than youngsters, all for a cause. And the beautiful surroundings seemed to enhance the occasion. It was the first fundraiser by Zindagi, an NGO set up by Shehzad Roy. Unfortunately, the singer who had been working on this project for months alongwith his team, contracted jaundice a few days before the programme. And although he was not up to it he managed to make an appearance and even sing a song and sit through the whole show, gaining the sympathy of those around him.

The Governor who was also present with his wife and mother had allowed the concert to be held in the lawns of the Governor house. The building’s courtyard was converted into a perfect stage where Sajjad Ali, Rahim Shah and Hadiqa Kiyani performed. Moin Akhter compered the show and also presented a skit in the guise of Seth Danawala of Such Much. It is about time Moin discovered another character for his skits and should gracefully retire the seth. All the artists performed free of charge.

The show which started late began with the speech of Zindagi’s patron-in-chief, Chairman NAB, General Munir Hafiz, followed by the Governor’s presentation of mementos to all the organizational heads who had donated to the cause. Dinner, which was also sponsored, followed and while the guests had tea the concert began. Although Shehzad could hardly speak he proudly pointed out that the dropout rate at his schools was zero and that a multinational that evening had donated a school alongwith two million rupees from two others and one lakh from the governor.

There was tight security and the guests had to park their cars on the road which entailed a long walk for most. Apart from a few glitches as it was the first show for the Zindagi team, the evening fared well.

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