Inauguration of Pune Idol Competition Organized by Someshwar Foundation Held Successfully

Pune: “I have come here today to listen to the younger generation. Singers should not live in the past but embrace change. In this karaoke era, Someshwar Foundation’s efforts to provide a stage for singers to perform with live orchestras is commendable,” said veteran singer Pt. Ajay Pohankar. He urged budding singers in Maharashtra to take advantage of this opportunity and accept the evolving nature of music.

The Pune Idol competition, organized by Someshwar Foundation, was originally conceptualized by the late MLA and visionary leader Vinayak Nimbalkar as a prestigious platform for vocal artists. The competition was inaugurated today at Pt. Bhimsen Joshi Auditorium in Aundh by Pt. Ajay Pohankar, who also shared his insights during the event. The occasion was graced by notable personalities such as national award-winning singer Sawani Ravindra, Someshwar Foundation President and former corporator Sunny Vinayak Nimbalkar, Swati Tai Nimbalkar, Nandkumar Walunj, Bipin Modi, and Dnyaneshwar Murkute.

Continuing his speech, Pt. Ajay Pohankar said, “Just as old houses have been replaced by tall buildings—while the emotions remain the same, only the form changes—the same goes for music. Artists should embrace these changes and move forward. I want to tell the participants in today’s competition that listening is extremely important, as it is through listening that one becomes a good singer. Competition is secondary in life; keep singing sincerely,” he advised the contestants.

Singer Sawani Ravindra remarked, “Starting something is easy, but maintaining consistency is the real challenge. Someshwar Foundation has achieved that. I always dreamed of being on this stage since childhood, and today I feel fortunate to be here.”

In the introductory address, Sunny Vinayak Nimbalkar stated, “Along with food, clothing, and shelter, preserving art, sports, and cultural heritage helps build a prosperous lifestyle. That is the belief of Someshwar Foundation. This is why we organize various cultural programs. A rich cultural life is essential for a well-rounded lifestyle. In line with that, we have been organizing Pune Idol for the past 23 years.”

The Pune Idol competition is held in four categories. The grand finale of the competition will take place on Saturday, May 24, 2025, from 12 PM to 3 PM at Balgandharva Rangmandir, Pune. The competition will conclude with a musical program titled “Geeton Ka Safar” presented by singer Jitendra Bhuruk, which will be held after the awards ceremony.

Volunteers such as Amit Murkute, Hemant Kamble, Aniket Kapote, Vanmala Kamble, Sanjay Majire, Ganesh Shelar, and Sanjay Tarde are working diligently to ensure the success of the competition. The performances are being judged by singers Jitendra Bhuruk and Mugdha Vaishampayan. The event was hosted by Milind Kulkarni and Mahesh Gaikwad, and Umesh Wagh gave the vote of thanks.