Punjabi singer Babbu Maan's concert in Auckland was an unforgettable night that will continue to resonate in the hearts of the Kiwi-Indian community, reminding them of the importance of cherishing their cultural roots through music.
The September 23 event was a vibrant celebration of Punjabi culture and saw the audience having a gala time. People from faraway places such as Bay of Plenty and Waikato and the Auckland community revelled in the joyous celebration of Punjabi music.
The concert marked Maan's return to New Zealand after a hiatus caused by the Covid-19 pandemic. His presence was eagerly awaited since his last show in 2019, and the audience embraced him with open hearts, revelling in his soulful melodies once again. Almost 2,500 music enthusiasts attended the event, creating an electric atmosphere at Due Drop Event Centre in Manukau.
Throughout the concert, the 48-year-old showcased his versatility as an artist. From soul-stirring ballads like ‘Saaun Di Jhadi’, ‘Mittran Di Chhatri’ to foot-tapping tracks like ‘Telephoon’ and ‘Dil Ta Pagal Hai’, he instantly captivated the audience with his powerful voice and charismatic stage presence. Moreover, his ability to connect with his audience on an emotional level left a lasting impression on everyone in attendance.
Beyond entertaining, the event also played a crucial role in educating younger generations about their rich cultural heritage. As an attendee, Manmeet Kaur said, "Such events help our kids bridge the gap between Western culture and our roots through the medium of songs."
As the night drew to a close, Maan delivered a heartfelt thank you to the Auckland audience. “I immensely enjoyed performing in Auckland. My heartfelt thanks to all my brothers, sisters and elders who have taken the time to come and enjoy my show. Thanks for showering me with your love. I am nothing without your love and support. I am indebted to you all."
Big Brother Production organised the concert in partnership with Blackstone Production. One of the organisers, Baljit Singh, said, "We are doing these events for the entertainment of the community. Everyone's life is so fast-paced that people forget about their psychological needs. These events act as food for their soul."
Talking about the response from community groups, another organiser, Jagdip Matharu, said, "The Kiwi-Indian community came out in full force, and the cultural resonance was remarkable. The joyful faces of the attendees served as a testament to the event's success.”
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