The night of March 21st at the NESCO Centre was not merely a concert, it was a folklore of Indian cultural legacy as the living legend “Panjab Di Shaan Gurdas Maan” returned to Mumbai for an exclusive "Live Like Never Before" showcase. 

The evening began with an AV showing Maan Sahab lying down in charpoy as he gets the curtain call, he runs to get ready with his iconic "waskat" (waist coat), belt, "kaintha" (neck piece) and Dafli the cinematic drum roll that signalled the arrival of a performer who, even at the age of 69, possesses an energy that defies the laws of time. Clad in a stunning, shimmering black kurta paired with a vibrant green belt & waistcoat, why green? Cas it was Eid and wishing the same he said “Tyohaar Koi Bhi Ho Manaya Karo” which translates to celebrate every festival.

Maan Sahab made an entrance with Dafli in his hand that set the tone for the night. Before a single note was sung, he moved across the stage to greet each of his band members, softly playing his iconic Dafli over them and welcome the audience with joined hands and gratitude, a gesture that felt like a sacred blessing.

As the setlist began, the audience spanned generations from ten-year-old enthusiasts to seventy-year-old veterans who found themselves transformed into their younger self the moment the music started. The "pinch of salt" in this wholesome recipe was his dance, effortless, traditional rooted folk steps filled with a visible joy and energy that radiated throughout the arena. A few of the audience's favourite songs were performed. His voice, his eyes, his expressions, and his every move flowed together in perfect harmony, as if the song and the man were one. It was in these moments of stillness that his message through poetry of Communal Harmony and Pluralism felt most resonant.

As the setlist unfolded, it became clear that this production was a meticulously crafted journey through the "Sound of Soil," allowing Maan Sahab’s poignant poetry to "crash" through the melodies. These interludes offered a profound sense of hope, urging the crowd to let go of trivial burdens and maintain faith in the Divine.

The mid-concert transition served as the emotional spine of the evening, a soulful segment featuring only a live piano played by Maan Sahab acted as a bridge for the whole show. By the time he transitioned into his second attire which was a striking red Panjabi kurta with black Patkha & Lacha the whole energy shifted a level up sizzling towards the second half of the show where everyone stood up on their feet applauding and dancing to the rhythm of his greatest hits like Cycle, Ki Banu Duniya Da, Mamla Gadbad Hai, Sajna Ve Sajna. One of his fans “Farmaish” sent a request letter asking to sing Dil Da Mamla hai.

The evening was also a testament to Maan Sahab’s character as an artist who refuses to practice "overshadowing." In a heartwarming display of inclusivity, he invited young fans who were dressed up in traditional Punjabi attire from the arena to dance alongside him, effectively turning the prestigious NESCO stage into a shared family space of happiness and enjoyment. This "no-mask" authenticity was further highlighted during a sombre heartfelt tribute to the late “Dharmendra Paaji”. Reflecting on their deep bond, Maan Sahab offered moving condolences to Hema Ji, Sunny Paaji, and the whole family reminding everyone that the true artistry is rooted in love and hard work. As the final notes of this two-and-a-half-hour marathon faded, it left the city with a rare, unrepeatable memory of a man who is the ultimate power source of Punjabi heritage, what is now called “Punjabi POP”.

The event was produced and promoted by ‘EVA Live’ powered by ‘Mastercard’. Co-powered by ‘Vijay Sales’ and Teachers. Co-promoted by BBP.

By Kiran Holkar