‘Mumbai for Chennai’ concerts kick off

The first of a series of three concerts organised by The Hindu group to raise funds for Chennai’s flood victims was held today.

Titled ‘Mumbai for Chennai’, the concert was presented by renowned classical vocalist Aruna Sairam at the G5A, the performance venue at Mahalakshmi.

Cheques worth ₹15 lakh were handed to Bhoomika Trust, which has been actively helping the flood affected, by Namita Vikas, Group President and Country Head, Responsible Banking & Chief Sustainability Officer, YES Bank, and A Balasubramanian, CEO of Birla Sun Life Asset Management Company.

“Chennai floods affected 30 lakh people and about 10 lakh were rendered homeless. Our focus is now on rehabilitation and this money will help us with the initiative,” said Aruna Subramaniam from Bhoomika Trust, while accepting the cheques. ‘Mumbai for Chennai’ is presented by YES Bank and powered by Birla Sun Life Mutual Fund.

Set up in February 2001, Bhoomika Trust primarily works to provide disaster relief and rehabilitation. It has worked extensively with those who suffered in the Gujarat earthquake and the Tsunami in south India.

On Saturday an instrumental duet will be performed by celebrated flautists Shashank Subramanyam and Ronu Majumdar.

January 24, the final day, will see acclaimed playback singer Hariharan, the son of renowned Carnatic vocalists Shrimati Alamelu and the late HAS Mani, perform a ghazal concert.

The events start at 7.15 pm at G5A, Laxmi Mills Estate, Laxmi Mills Lane, off Dr E Moses Road, Mahalaxmi. For details, call 24909393.

Limited early-bird passes available at the venue.