During the Hari Raya occasion, the festive spirit is palpable everywhere. It’s common to witness our Malay friends sharing their celebration photos on social media platforms. Amidst the festivities, the song “Lagu Bersama Di Hari Raya” remains a perennial favorite for many, adding to the joyous atmosphere of the celebration. People from various corners of the internet were astonished and delighted to learn that the renowned song “Lagu Bersama Di Hari Raya” was performed by Indian vocalist.
This revelation ignited significant surprise and enthusiasm within the online community. Lagu “Bersama Di Hari Raya” holds a special significance as one of the indispensable songs for numerous individuals who celebrate Hari Raya Aidilfitri, a major festival in the Muslim calendar. Traditionally rendered by the Cenderawasih group, the song has become deeply ingrained in the cultural tapestry of the celebration. However, despite its widespread fame, many may not be aware that the iconic Hari Raya song “Bersama Di Hari Raya” was actually sung by Indian artists Helen Savari and Irene Savaree.
The Cenderawasih group, established by Helen Savari and Irene Savaree in Malaysia in 1981, rose to prominence as a sibling singing duo known for their captivating melodies and compelling performances. The Cenderawasih group, comprising Irene Savaree and Helen Savari, stands out as a remarkable non-Malay duo that achieved remarkable popularity through their enchanting melodies. Their track “Deritamu Deritaku,” featured in their debut album of 1984, emerged as a standout piece that deeply resonated with art enthusiasts of the era.
During their formative years, the Cenderawasih Group embarked on their musical journey by securing a three-year contract with the esteemed recording company EMI. This pivotal step marked Irene and Helen’s initial immersion into the music industry. The release of “Deritamu Deritaku” proved to be a breakthrough moment for the duo, serving as a testament to their musical prowess and earning them widespread acclaim.
The “Bersama Di Hari Raya” song beautifully depicts the essence of the Hari Raya festival, capturing its vibrant celebrations and cultural practices. It serves as a poignant reminder of the unity that exists among us, transcending cultural boundaries. Despite our diverse backgrounds, the song reflects how people from various cultural backgrounds come together during Hari Raya, engaging in conversations about different traditions and customs. Through its lyrics, the song celebrates the rich tapestry of cultures present within our community, highlighting the spirit of inclusivity and mutual respect. It underscores the notion that festivals like Hari Raya serve as occasions for fostering understanding and unity among people of diverse backgrounds.
Helen and Irene skillfully mastered the nuances of the Malay language accent, seamlessly integrating it into their vocal delivery of the song. Their rendition exudes such authenticity that it gives the impression of a native Malay singer. Listeners would be astonished to discover that the vocals behind the song were provided by Indian artists.
Through their meticulous attention to detail and dedication to capturing the essence of Malay pronunciation and intonation, Helen and Irene achieved a remarkable level of linguistic fluency. Their ability to embody the cultural nuances of the language adds a layer of depth and authenticity to their performance, captivating audiences and blurring cultural boundaries.
Throughout their illustrious career, the duo unveiled three successful albums, each contributing to their growing acclaim and fan base. These albums, namely “Cenderawasih Volume 1 – Samangang Perjalanan Ini” (1984), “Cenderawasih Volume 2” (1985), and “Cenderawasih Vol 3” (1986), showcased their versatility and innovation within the music landscape of their time.
Following their graduation from Berklee College of Music in Boston, Helen and Irene decided to pursue separate paths, leading to the dissolution of the Cenderawasih group. Irene assumed the role of President and CEO at the International College of Music (ICOM) in Kuala Lumpur, where she oversees the institution’s operations and contributes to the development of young musicians. Meanwhile, Helen, along with her husband, directs the Jazzaar Festival in Switzerland. This initiative is dedicated to nurturing and promoting emerging talents in the music industry, providing them with opportunities to kick-start their careers and thrive in the competitive music landscape.
This underscores the exceptional character of our nation, where connections extend far beyond conventional boundaries. We wholeheartedly embrace the cultural practices of different ethnicities and celebrate them with genuine enthusiasm. This approach vividly reflects the rich diversity inherent within our society, symbolizing a profound commitment to inclusivity and mutual respect. Through our willingness to acknowledge and actively engage in the cultural traditions of others, we fortify the bonds that bind us together as a nation. This inclusive attitude serves as a cornerstone for fostering unity and understanding amidst our diverse populace. Moreover, our openness to diverse cultures cultivates a shared sense of empathy, tolerance, and appreciation among individuals hailing from various backgrounds. It encourages us to recognize and honor the unique customs and traditions that collectively weave the intricate fabric of our national identity.
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