100 songs in 11 hours, 5 minutes, and 4 seconds

The morning of November 23, 2024, was unlike any other in Vijayapura, Karnataka. It wasn’t just a day; it was an ode to music, dedication, and sheer stamina. RavindrakumarAtharga, a prominent singer and a household name in the region, embarked on an extraordinary journey—a musical marathon that would etch his name in history. His love for music began at a tender age in the serene streets of Vijayapura. Surrounded by the rich cultural heritage of Karnataka, he found solace and inspiration in melodies that transcended time and language. His journey wasn’t confined to any single genre or language. His voice, versatile and soulful, had the rare ability to breathe life into lyrics in Kannada, Hindi, Telugu, Tamil, and Bhojpuri.The decision to sing 100 songs originally performed by the legendary Kumar Sanu wasn’t just a personal challenge—it was a tribute to the man who had inspired countless hearts across India. Kumar Sanu, known for his melodious voice and chart-topping hits, became the muse for this ambitious feat.

Months of rigorous practice and meticulous planning preceded the big day. Ravindrakumar’s team left no stone unturned in preparing him for the daunting task. Singing for 11 hours, 5 minutes, and 4 seconds required not only vocal strength but also immense physical and mental endurance.The venue, adorned with a modest yet vibrant stage, was abuzz with anticipation. Supporters, music enthusiasts, and media personnel gathered to witness what promised to be a historic event. The challenge: to perform 100 songs in five languages seamlessly, without compromising on the quality of each rendition.The clock struck 9 a.m., and Ravindrakumar took the stage amidst thunderous applause. The first note of the iconic “mere khudamuze..Khusiyonkidarmiyarakhnaset the tone for the day. His voice, steady and emotive, carried the audience into a nostalgic journey through Kumar Sanu’s timeless hits.

Switching effortlessly between languages, he showcased his mastery over diverse linguistic nuances. From the soulful depth of Kannada ballads to the playful tunes of Bhojpuri folk, every performance was a testament to his versatility. Songs like “Nilavennilaniye” in Tamil, and “Okkasaricheppuleva” in Telugu were met with cheers and applause.As hours passed, the magnitude of the task became evident. Singing continuously demanded unwavering focus and stamina. But he had prepared well. Hydration breaks, vocal warm-ups, and brief moments of mindfulness helped him stay in peak form.Around the eighth hour, his rendition of the Bhojpuri hit “Shisha kidil banal rahe, tootalbikhargail” left the audience spellbound. Despite fatigue, his voice retained its charm, delivering each note with clarity and passion.His team, stationed nearby, offered encouragement and support, ensuring that the momentum never faltered. The audience, too, became his strength, their energy fueling his determination to complete the marathon.

As the eleventh hour approached, Ravindrakumar reached his final song—“dil ne ye kahahaidil se” from Dhadkan. The emotional depth in his voice resonated deeply with everyone present. When the last note faded into the air, the crowd erupted in applause, whistles, and cheers.He had done it—100 songs in 11 hours, 5 minutes, and 4 seconds, a feat that not only showcased his talent but also his dedication and respect for the art of music.Atharga’s achievement was more than a personal milestone; it was a celebration of the unifying power of music. Singing in five languages demonstrated that melodies know no boundaries, transcending cultural and linguistic barriers to connect people on a profound level.Reflecting on the journey, he said, “This was not just my dream—it was a tribute to the legendary Kumar Sanu and a gift to my audience who have always supported me. Music has the power to heal, to inspire, and to bring people together. That is what I wanted to celebrate.”The success of this record-setting event has only fuelledRavindrakumar’s passion further. Plans are already in motion for future projects that aim to push the boundaries of his artistry.