The Ismaili Seniors Matki Band was invited to perform at the India’s 70th Republic Day Celebration in Houston TX, held at the Stafford Civic Center on Jan 27th, 2019.
The band’s entertaining performance was not only appreciated by the audience, but it also inspired other community members to initiate programs focused on aging gracefully and quality of life of seniors.
This year’s performance was bitter sweet for the entire team due to the loss of three, very active band members, namely, Karim Jinnah, Rajaab Momin, and Allauddin Vishram. The latter had passed away just two days before the India’s Republic Day performance. Since Mr. Vishram was supposed to be a part of this act, in his memory, his usual spot in the center in the front row was left vacant.
The President of the India’s Culture Center, Ms. Nisha Mirani, shared condolences for the loss of the team members, and applauded the dedication and professionalism of the Ismaili Seniors Matki Band of Houston, who kept their commitment to perform, even though they had participated in the funeral services of Mr Vishram only hours earlier that same day.
This year, the band will be completing their 9th year. They have beautifully delivered various performances at Jamati, Institutional, and Outreach events, and even participated in the global song, “Jubilee Mubarak”
NTV Houston’s coverage of the event
Ismailimail 