by Fr Raymund Alphonse Chauhan SJ for BISMumbai

A group from different walks of life gathered together and has released an audio album 'Paigaam Masih ka', a collection of Christian lyrics written both in Hindi and Gujarati, by veteran Gujarati poet-cum-singer Shri Joseph Macwan of Vadodara.

The Salesians of Don Bosco at Kapadvanj, approached Jesuit priest Father Raymund Chauhan to set these lyrics in the Quawalli style. The music arrangement is by budding young musician Shailesh from Nadiad, and the album has been recorded at Studio Don Bosco, attached to Amrutdhara Don Bosco at Kapadvanj by Anand J. Macwan. Mukesh from Nadiad and the veteran Joseph Macwan have vocalised the lyrics.

Some may wonder as to why the songs are mainly in the Hindi language! Those acquainted with the 'Kheda Christians' Bhajan Mandali tradition' may recall that after midnight in many cities and even villages, the Bhajan Mandalis would have singers singing in Hindi, with sher-o-shayaris. This album has been rendered in this style, since there was a suggestion from people to cater to this need. In doing so, the entire process brought us together for the purpose of sharing the faith in this popular way.

This album 'Paigaam Masih ka' is a good example of laity, Salesians and Jesuits, working together. Hats off to all those who actively participated and contributed towards the release of this audio album.

MumbaiSalesians' Provincial Father Savio Silveira, released the audio album on the occasion of his canonical visitation on 21 October 2021. He congratulated the artists, singers, composers and the sound engineer for this collaborative production