NEW DELHI: The first day of the two-day International Solar Festival 2024 at Bharat Mandapam ended on a high note with a musical concert led by A.R. Rahman and his band. However, the evening took an even more exciting turn when Bollywood playback singer Mohit Chauhan made a surprise entry, captivating the audience with his presence.
Despite little promotion of Chauhan’s appearance, the crowd erupted in applause when Rahman introduced him. Dressed in his signature cap and a red jacket, Chauhan kicked off his performance with the iconic Nadaan Parindey from Rockstar (2011), sending waves of excitement through the venue.
ALSO READ: A.R. Rahman lights up International Solar Festival with spectacular concert
“I have sung many beautiful songs with A.R. Rahman, but this one is my favourite,” Chauhan said before they performed Masakali from Delhi-6 (2009) and Jo Bhi Main Kehna Chahu from Rockstar. His smooth vocals and Rahman’s musical genius created a magical synergy on stage, mesmerising the audience.
Chauhan’s rendition of Maahi Ve from Highway (2014) and Ishq Mitaye from Amar Singh Chamkila added charm to the night. He played a cameo role in the movie Amar Singh Chamkila, which stars Diljit Dosanjh and Parineeti Chopra, and his connection with the music brought the performance to life. Audience members grooved as he sang Naram Kaalja, performed alongside Shweta Mohan and Shakthisree Gopalan.
FLASH: Music maestro A.R. Rahman and Mohit Chauhan deliver a stunning performance at the Indian Solar Festival 2024.
Reports: @SubhadraSrivas5
Photo: @Photo_Sumit_ #ARRahman #ARRahmanConcert #ARRahmanLivePerformance #ISA #InternationalSolarAlliance pic.twitter.com/CQ9mCc8lBt— The New Indian (@TheNewIndian_in) September 5, 2024
Rahman’s ensemble for the concert included renowned singers Shweta Mohan, Mano, Nakul Abhyankar, Hriday Gattani, and Rashid Ali. One of the standout performances was Akh Main Maarunga Deewana by Hriday Gattani and Shakthisree Gopalan, which electrified the audience, complemented by energetic background dancers.
Throughout the three-hour show, Rahman blended his timeless classics with more recent hits. Fans of Bollywood were thrilled by renditions of Kun Faya Kun from Rockstar (2011) and Agar Tum Saath Ho from Tamasha (2015), which were among the most requested and well-received songs.
The International Solar Festival 2024, hosted by the International Solar Alliance (ISA), was not just about music. It aimed to accelerate global solar adoption through strategic partnerships, policy enactment, and innovative financing. ISA’s goal is to foster a future powered by affordable, reliable, and sustainable solar energy, with a focus on transformative collaborations.