The Malaysian Philharmonic Orchestra (MPO) is set to mark a cultural milestone this November with a special collaboration featuring KS Chithra, one of India’s most revered playback singers.

Taking place on 29 November 2025 at Dewan Filharmonik PETRONAS (DFP), KLCC, the concert will be conducted by MPO Resident Conductor Gerard Salonga, and promises a stunning fusion of classical orchestration and iconic Indian film music.

One-Night Only Appearance

Madhu Balakrishnan

Affectionately known as The Golden Voice of India, KS Chithra has recorded over 25,000 songs in more than a dozen Indian languages over her five-decade career. Renowned for her emotive voice and celebrated collaborations with composers such as A.R. Rahman and Ilaiyaraaja, Chithra brings a legacy of musical excellence to this rare orchestral performance. In 2021, she was awarded the Padma Bhushan, India’s third-highest civilian honour.

The concert programme includes beloved tracks such as Kannalanae, Anjali Anjali, Malargale Malargale, Rasaali, Thanni Thotti, Kuluvalilae, and Paadariyen, all of which will be reimagined through new symphonic arrangements. These orchestrations are crafted by a team of composers including Gerard Salonga, Ahmad Muriz Che Rose, Ilham Subri, Wong Jun Xian, Teuku Umar, and Shahhakam Mokhtar.

Greatest Hits

Anamika PS

Joining Chithra on stage will be fellow vocalists Madhu Balakrishnan, Sathyaprakash, and Anamika PS, contributing their voices to what is expected to be a richly layered and emotionally resonant evening.

This performance also marks an important evolution in the MPO’s programming. While the orchestra has previously ventured into genres such as jazz, pop, traditional, and film scores—including anime soundtracks—this concert represents its first full collaboration with an Indian playback artist, expanding its reach and relevance across cultures.

Sathyaprakash

For fans of Indian cinema, symphonic music, or simply world-class vocal artistry, this promises to be an evening not to miss — a true meeting of East and West, tradition and innovation, voice and orchestra.