The musical talents of the Kemradj family will be a central event at the upcoming Red Mango Arts Festival, which will take place from July 22 to 27 at the Sassridge College in Durban.
About the Festival and Performance
This second iteration of the festival is the brainchild of renowned South African actor and director Rajesh Gopi. It promises a dynamic blend of theatrical performances, musical concerts, and spoken word acts, while celebrating South Africa's rich heritage and fostering youth development.
On July 23rd at 7:30 PM, Vishin, along with brothers Vaahir and Vihaan Kemradj, will perform with the program 'Sufis, Mystics and Qawali.' This presentation is viewed not merely as a family event but as a deeper connection to their cultural roots.
Vaahir Kemradj's Experience
Vaahir, aged 18 and recognized for his roles in the films Kandasamys, shared how music has influenced his life. He noted that he has been involved in music since the age of seven. Performing as a singer, he stated: 'It is not just entertainment, but a profound experience.'
His mother, Vireka Kemradj, introduced him to the harmonium at the age of three, and his father continued to develop his musical abilities. Although Vaahir was initially more inclined towards drama and acting, his passion for music led him to embrace his family's musical legacy.
He recounted performing for the first time at age seven, singing a bhajan written by his mother—Satya Sai—which he performed in various Satya Sai temples. Vaahir added that he cannot recall a time when he wasn't a musician and singer, and that he has been performing since seven years old, although he still considers himself a novice professional.
Musical Preferences and Family
Vaahir mentioned listening to many musical styles, but his favorite remains Shastriya Sangeet. He explained that Shastriya Sangeet encompasses two streams: Hindustani classical and Carnatic music. Hindustani classical is distinguished by covering everything from light music to heavy classical, and it is highly spiritual, requiring great concentration and repeated systematic practice (riyaz).
In Vaahir's opinion, Sufi music represents an 'abstract thought' that transcends a mere genre. He emphasized that a true connection with music demands a deep understanding of the text's meaning; otherwise, one risks missing the opportunity for a passionate performance. He also noted the humility that music teaches him: 'The more you think you know, the less you actually comprehend.'
He performs alongside his younger brother Vihaan, a 13-year-old singer who also plays guitar and dholak. Vihaan started singing at four years old and became one of the youngest dholak performers in the country at nine. Vaahir's father, Vishin, is a renowned South African musician.
Vishin Kemradj's Career
Vishin, founder of Taal Music, has performed with famous African jazz musicians such as Lou Daminy, Madala Kunene, and Mabuso, as well as Indian artists including Sunidhi Chauhan, Kumar Sanu, and Sukhwinder Singh. He plays tabla and harmonium.
Other Festival Events
The event also features other activities, including a comedy night with Jayloshni Naidu and friends on July 24th at 8:00 PM, and the Global Ballie monologue by Kurt Egelhof, scheduled for July 25th at 5:30 PM. The festival will also offer food, outdoor relaxation areas, books for sale, exhibitions, and displays. Further information can be found on the website webtickets.co.za.
