Fans of vintage Tamil cinema were treated to an unforgettable evening of music and memories as the sold-out “Sevvaanathil Oru Natchathiram” tribute concert celebrated the enduring legacy of legendary actor Jaishankar at the RELC Auditorium on Orange Grove Road on July 4.
For four captivating hours, from 6.30pm to 10.30pm, the audience of around 500 was transported back to the golden era of Tamil cinema through a carefully curated musical journey featuring evergreen hits from Jaishankar’s films spanning the mid-1960s to the late 1970s.
Organised by Punithan and Friends, the concert paid tribute to the actor affectionately known as the “James Bond of Tamil cinema”, whose stylish screen presence and versatile performances made him one of Tamil cinema’s most beloved stars. Songs from classics including Iravum Pagalum, Panchavarna Kili, Vallavan Oruvan, Yaar Nee? and CID Shankar rekindled cherished memories among fans.
The evening featured spirited performances by veteran Singapore television artistes such as S. Vijayendiran, K. Karunamurthi, V. Suriamurthi, S. Rajalakshmi, Magesvari, S. Rani Nas, Victor Punithan and V. Kasthuri Bai, alongside accomplished singers Sathia Bhama and Kamala Nathan.
Adding further excitement were energetic dance sequences choreographed by Manimaran Creations, faithfully recreating the retro dance styles and unmistakable swagger associated with Jaishankar’s films. A special unplugged segment by youngsters Harran Punithan and Vaishnavi provided a refreshing interpretation of some of the actor’s best-loved songs.
The evening’s most emotional moment came with the presence of Jaishankar’s second son Sanjai, who travelled from Chennai to attend the tribute. He was presented with a commemorative memento by the organisers and, in return, gifted Punithan a book chronicling his father’s life and illustrious career.
Speaking after the concert, Sanjai, who runs a media production company in Chennai, said he felt honoured to witness such an elaborate overseas tribute to his father.
“When Punithan and his friends invited me and told me they were organising a programme dedicated to my father in Singapore, I felt very privileged to be here. The show was fantastic, very well organised, and hats off to Punithan and Friends,” he said.
He also highlighted Jaishankar’s long-standing connection with Singapore, recalling that the actor had frequently visited the country for stage shows known as “Jai Joy Night”. He added that the tribute had inspired him to explore organising similar events in the future.
Punithan said the production was driven by the enduring affection Singapore audiences have for Jaishankar.
“Jaishankar has many fans in Singapore. T.M. Soundararajan sang many memorable songs for him. Beyond being a great actor, Jaishankar was a wonderful human being who quietly supported many charitable causes. Producers loved working with him because he always prioritised good stories over money,” he said.
The organisers spent nearly four months preparing the production, paying close attention to every detail. The auditorium foyer featured themed decorations, photo booths and memorabilia that recreated the atmosphere of Jaishankar’s cinematic world, allowing fans to interact with Sanjai and capture memorable photographs.
Audience member Thiru Vijay, a software professional, praised the overall production.
“The show was so captivating that although it stretched close to four hours, nobody wanted it to end. Everything was done professionally – the songs, the setting and the photo opportunities. It was a wonderful nostalgic experience,” he said.
Singer V. Kasthuri Bai described the concert as a privilege.
“It is always a pleasure to perform with such a talented team. I am grateful that Punithan trusted me with some of my favourite Jaishankar songs,” she said.
Rajalakshmi, Punithan’s wife, said the concert carried personal significance as her late father had acted alongside Jaishankar in several films.
“We worked as one team without anyone seeking personal glory. We carefully selected our costumes and sarees to reflect the colourful era of Jaishankar’s films, and the audience truly appreciated the effort,” she said.
Encouraged by the overwhelming response, Punithan revealed that the group plans to continue organising performances, including charity shows supporting organisations such as Sun Love Home and Sree Narayana Mission. They are also planning a special concert next year to celebrate veteran singer Suriamurthi’s 50-year musical journey, marking five decades since he began performing as a child artiste on Singapore radio and television.
