Auckland’s Indian music community was gifted a deeply memorable evening of melody, heritage, and emotion this spring when renowned musician and mentor Amit Sen presented the 17th programme of his Mohammed Rafi Academy of Music, alongside the 12th edition of his highly acclaimed concert series, Old is Gold. Held on Saturday, 15 November at the Michael Park School Auditorium in Ellerslie, the event once again reaffirmed Sen’s reputation as one of the most passionate preservers of India’s golden musical era in New Zealand. Known for his devotion to classical and film music, Sen curated an evening that interwove nostalgia, artistry, and cultural depth while offering audiences a refined musical journey. This year’s concert was distinguished by a special classical dimension, with Sen creatively incorporating Raag Yaman and Raag Pahadi into select compositions, enriching the emotional texture of the performances.
Over the years, Amit Sen has emerged as a defining cultural figure within Auckland’s Indian music landscape. Through the Mohammed Rafi Academy of Music, he has trained and guided numerous singers who look up to stalwarts such as Mohammed Rafi, Lata Mangeshkar, Mukesh, Kishore Kumar, and Asha Bhosle. His Old is Gold series has grown into an eagerly awaited cultural tradition, known for reviving Bollywood’s finest melodies with authenticity and dedication. Each new edition has deepened in quality, musical richness, and emotional impact, often leaving audiences moved by the blend of heartfelt singing, skilled orchestration, and genuine respect for India’s musical heritage.
Sen’s contribution, however, extends well beyond the stage. Through consistent mentorship, he has nurtured emerging artists and encouraged them to reconnect with their musical roots. “I take pride in having mentored many young Indian artists to pursue their musical passion,” he says. “For me, it’s not about filling halls but connecting with true music lovers — those who appreciate the depth and beauty of fine artistry.” Under his guidance, the academy has become a cultural sanctuary where students learn not only vocal technique but also the discipline, emotional sensitivity, and respect that are central to classical and film music traditions.
This year’s programme carried a distinct artistic flavour. Known for his mastery of classical ragas, Sen offered the audience a delightful blend of melody and classical nuance by introducing Raag Yaman, celebrated for its serenity and devotional aura, and Raag Pahadi, admired for its simplicity and folk-like charm. “These ragas are close to my heart,” Sen shared. “Through them, I want to elevate familiar songs and offer listeners a fresh emotional experience.” His thoughtful fusion of classical elements with timeless Bollywood melodies reflected his vision of preserving traditional musical forms while presenting them in a relatable way for contemporary audiences.
Supporting Sen on stage were several of his trained singers and New Zealand–based vocalists, whose performances added variety, warmth, and colour to the evening. Accomplished artists such as Gopal Nair, Renuka, Rachit Bhatia, Ashitha Alex, and Reshma Raj, alongside very talented musicians, brought the stage to life with their personal styles and emotional engagement. For many of them, performing in Old is Gold is not merely a musical opportunity but a celebration of artistic growth and community.
These concerts have also long been associated with compassion. Over time, Sen has donated concert proceeds to charitable organisations, including the Starship Foundation. The symbolic gesture of handing over contributions at the end of each programme underscores his belief that music should not only entertain but also uplift society.
This year’s edition concluded as a resounding success. The auditorium resonated with applause as singers transported listeners to the golden period of the 1960s and ’70s — an era shaped by poetic lyricists, soulful compositions, and legendary playback voices. Iconic songs such as Ehsaan Tera, Ek Pyar Ka Nagma Hai, Is Mod Se Jaate Hain, Lag Ja Gale, Chaudhvin Ka Chand, Suhani Raat Dhal Chuki, Jo Wada Kiya, and Rahe Na Rahe Hum left the audience visibly moved.
Maestro Amit Sen expressed heartfelt gratitude to the performers, musicians, volunteers, and audience members who made Old is Gold – 12 possible. He concluded the evening with an exciting announcement his next major production, Ek Shaam Sahir Ke Naam, a tribute to the legendary poet-lyricist Sahir Ludhianvi, scheduled for next year.
Once again, Auckland witnessed an evening where true melodies like pure gold glowed with timeless brilliance.
-TIN Bureau