Carnatic musician laid to rest
Ngcobo started his musical career in his teen years, singing Chutney music which he overheard while working for an Indian engineering company.
Tears were shed and tributes poured in as the community bid farewell to the tremendously talented Carnatic singer and recipient of the Ponnaadai (Golden Shawl) award, Patrick Ngcobo.
The 43-year-old singer passed away on Sunday, February 1, 2015, after a long illness bravely borne. His funeral was held at the SCDIFA Hall, with many Carnatic singers and musicians performing a musical farewell to the accomplished singer.
Ngcobo started his musical career in his teen years, singing Chutney music which he overheard while working for an Indian engineering company. Taking an active interest in Indian classical music, Ngcobo went on to join Chris Murugan and Nanban Nayager in a band called Neelavani Entertainers after being recognised for his talent and was recruited by Murugan. He went on to master film songs and was given formal training in music under the tutorship of Isaiselvamani V Karthigesan Pillay, which contributed in his strong foundation in Carnatic music. Ngcobo graduated in Indian Carnatic Music in a graduation ceremony held in Shallcross, in 1993.
Noticing the immense talent in the voice of the passionate singer, grandfather of his close friend and fellow musician (Nayagar), Siva Govender, who was the owner of Star Footware and the founder of Star of Stars Promotions, was instrumental in sending Ngcobo and Nayagar to study together in India for over two years.
Ngcobo’s fascination with Carnatic music, indeed, began when he listened to a song of the renowned south Indian classical singer, Dr KJ Yesudas. Fortune smiled on him when Yesudas performed in Durban in the 1990’s and was impressed by Ngcobo’s talent leading him to offer the young artist the opportunity of a lifetime; to be taught by the master himself, Yesudas.
“Being fluent in Tamil, Telegu and several other languages was a great accomplishment for Patrick. He loved the Indian culture and played a pivotal role in promoting culture and religion in our community. We were friends for many years and he will be dearly missed. Patrick left a legendary musical footprint in our Indian society and I think for an African person who never knew the language, this was an amazing contribution,” said Nanban, who organised the funeral.
South African music composer and producer, Sergai Kistan, said, “Patrick performed in the first KZN Indian Orchestra in 2010, and again in 2013. He also received the Ponnaadai Award, which is also known as the Golden Shawl award, which is a prestigious cloth award and is exclusive to Indian culture, in 2010. He made a positive contribution towards Indian culture, language and arts and will always be remembered for his talent and dedication.”
