Bengaluru will host a heartfelt tribute concert to the legendary singer S P Balasubrahmanyam (SPB) on December 8 at the Prestige Centre for Performing Arts. The event, organized by SPB's son, S P B Charan, is not only a celebration of the iconic singer’s life and work but will also raise funds for the construction of a memorial in Chennai. The memorial is currently under construction in Thamaraipakkam, near Chennai, and is being designed by architect Vinu Daniel. The tribute concert aims to support this project, with all proceeds going towards its completion.
Charan explained that the decision to hold the concert in Bengaluru was influenced by the city's enthusiasm for contributing to the memorial. Additionally, Charan noted that tribute concerts in Chennai occur frequently, whereas a special event in Bengaluru would offer a fresh opportunity to honor his father. The concert will feature several of SPB’s famous Kannada songs, with performances by renowned playback singers Rajesh Krishnan and Vijay Prakash, alongside Charan himself.
Speaking further about the memorial, Charan revealed that it will be built using nearly 12,000 waste tyres, employing a technique called unstabilized tyre masonry for the walls. This innovative construction will help keep the interior cool, a significant feature given the region’s sweltering heat. The memorial will also house a museum, auditorium, amphitheatre, mausoleum, and cafeteria, and display a special tribute—Mohammad Rafi’s Fiat car, a dream acquisition of SPB’s that never came to fruition during his lifetime.
The concert, which is set to become a recurring event if successful, will feature a mix of SPB's beloved songs, including a unique Acapella interpretation. Tickets for the event are priced at Rs 2,000, Rs 3,000, and Rs 5,000 and can be purchased via BookMyShow.
This tribute concert is just the beginning, and Charan hopes to take the tribute format to other cities in the future, ensuring SPB's legacy lives on across India.
