Navi Mumbai: Kharghar-based Mangalam Charitable Foundation marked Maharashtra Day with a special music therapy session organised for cancer patients and their caregivers. Over 80 patients staying at the foundation’s facility attended the event, which aimed to offer emotional relief and a moment of celebration amidst their treatment journey.

Mangalam Charitable Foundation, located in Sector 30, Kharghar, near Tata Cancer Centre, has been supporting cancer patients from across the country since 2009. The organisation provides hygienic accommodation at nominal rates along with free meals to patients undergoing treatment, particularly those from underprivileged backgrounds.

Soumya Gupta, founder member of the NGO, said the music session was planned to uplift patients' spirits. “Music is a powerful therapy that brings joy and peace. It helps patients experience moments of happiness and provides temporary relief from their struggles. Singing, dancing, and engaging in music foster's spiritual wellness and mental calm,” she noted.

The event opened with performances by the Sur Sangam Group, featuring singers Soma Chatterjee, Shaibal Chatterjee, Chaitali Sarkar, Dhananjoy Sarkar, Ipshita Das, Partha Sarathi, and Shampa Sen. Their soulful renditions offered patients a welcome distraction from the difficulties of their illness. A special presentation of Rabindra Sangeet by Moly and Mahua Das added a cultural highlight to the celebration.

Guest artists, including Sujit Parida (popularly known as Junior Kishore Kumar), Deepak, and Anuradha, also performed, energising the audience with their captivating music. For many patients, the session provided a much-needed break, helping them feel relaxed and refreshed.

Caregivers, who shoulder the daily stress of supporting their loved ones through treatment, also found comfort in the day’s musical offerings. The programme concluded with lunch served to all attendees, rounding off the event on a warm and positive note.