The Indian Railways Finance Corporation (IRFC) celebrated its 40th foundation day on December 12, 2025, in a spectacular evening filled with music, joy and nostalgia. The highlight of the evening was none other than the renowned singer Papon (Angaraag Mahanta), whose performance left the audience mesmerised.
The night began with a captivating short film showcasing Papon’s journey – glimpses of his blockbuster hits, achievements and memorable past performances. The cinematic introduction seamlessly led to his grand entry on stage, greeted by the roaring applause of the audience. Setting the tone for the evening, Papon opened with his iconic song “Kyon” from the movie Barfi, instantly winning hearts and raising the energy in the auditorium.
What followed was a performance that combined raw enthusiasm with a soft, enduring charm. Papon’s voice resonated deeply, touching not just the ears but the hearts of everyone present. Among the highlights was his rendition of the latest hit “Qayde Se” from the movie Metro In Dino, which had the audience swaying to the rhythm, their flashlights illuminating the hall like a sea of stars.
He delighted the crowd further with a surprise selection of ghazals by Jagjit Singh, including the soulful “Tum Itna Jo Muskura Rahe Ho,” along with evergreen classics like “Pehla Nasha Pehla Khumar,” originally rendered by Sadhana Sargam and Udit Narayan. Each note and each verse carried a serene and almost magical quality that held the audience spellbound.
The energy peaked when the crowd passionately requested the chart-topping song “Bulleya” from the movie Sultan. Papon answered with an intriguing performance, doing full justice to the audience’s excitement.
Accompanied by a talented team of musicians, including a skilled guitarist, flute player and percussionists, Papon’s ensemble delivered flawless musical synergy, creating an unforgettable experience.
As the evening drew to a close, Papon and his band members were felicitated with mementos and warm appreciation from Indian Railways CEO Satish Kumar and the entire IRFC team led by CMD Manoj Kumar Dubey, recognising their remarkable contribution to the celebration.
The event was more than a musical performance, it was a celebration of talent, emotion and the enduring power of music to bring people together. The 40th foundation day of IRFC will be remembered not only for its milestone but also for the magical night when Papon’s voice transformed the evening into a heartfelt musical journey.
