JEDDAH — Vadivel Balaji and Jayachandran, who have made a name for themselves with their stand-up comedy routines in Chennai, India, were the showstoppers in the Senthamil Nalamandram (SNM), special event here last weekend. They regaled the over 600-strong Tamil community crowd at the Indian Consulate premises with some unique comic routines that were original as well as mimicry episodes interspersed with comic scenes from Tamil films. The comedy performances by the well known artists of “Athu Ithu Ethu” which is telecasted by a popular TV channel in Tamil Language in Vijay TV literally stole the show. Comedian Vadivel, a doyen of the Tamil screen, was brought alive by Balaji with an impromptu skit that saw him interact with the audience, before Jayachandran (mimicking the voice of Tamil actor Parthiban) relived the famous film scene in which Parthiban runs rings around Vadivel with his words. The duo's depiction of the current breed of Tamil actors too was imaginative but the real show stealer was their original effort of commending SNM for their efforts in promoting Tamil through the eyes of various Tamil political leaders and cine stars. Jayachandran synced the words of the leaders on the screen to a T as the audience enjoyed the ad-libbed words of the personalities on the screen. Truly a heroic effort indeed. Senthamil Nalamandram is a social community group that serves the Tamil Community in Jeddah. The mega event was marked with maximum fervor and enthusiasm. The program commenced around 6.15 p.m. with the introductory song of Thamizhththai Vaazthu (invocation on Tamil Language) and the national anthem of India which was followed by the welcome address by the President of the SNM Mohideen. Anbumani introduced the guests to the audience, while Veda and Habib felicitated the guests. The event was coordinated by Pandian and Vijayendran. Sheriff conveyed the vote of thanks. Apart from the stand up comedy routines, the performances of children and others were well received by the audience with extraordinary enthusiasm.
It was quite a feast for the audience as the children of SNM families brought in their talents through their folk dance, fusion dance, Bharatha Natyam (a semi classical dance) and songs by the adult members. The event came to an end with the felicitations to the sponsors of the event, Irfan for conducting the Spell Bee and to Dr. Lakshman for conducting the Readers Club activities. The event came to an end at 10.30 p.m. which was followed by a sumptuous dinner coordinated by Ravi, John and Paul. — SG
