Chandrasinh G. Mattani (fondly known as Chandu Mattani)
Born in Kutch Mandvi in the Western State of Gujarat on 31st May 1934, Chandu Mattani travelled to Blantyre “Nyasaland” (renamed MALAWI on Independence) in Central Africa in February 1953 at the age of 19 years. He soon found work in a textile factory and after a 20 months stint, he moved to Ndola, Northern Rhodesia (Zambia post independence) in 1954. From there, he moved and finally settled in Mufulira, a mining town where he established a successful retail business in textiles and general merchandise.
In 1958, he travelled to India and found his soul mate, Kamla. They have three children, son Hemant, daughters Dina and Sadhana, all born and raised in Zambia.
Despite being away from his beloved Kutch (Gujarat), he always had his moorings firmly rooted in the Indian Traditions. During his 24 years in Central Africa, his dedication to public service and preservation and promotion of Indian culture and heritage brought him public esteem and honour. During this time, he served as Vice-President of Ndola Hindu Samaj, President of Mufulira Hindu Association, Secretary of Zambia Hindu Association, President of Parents Teachers Association of Mufulira Secondary School, and active member of Mufulira Round Table amongst many others.
Another aspect of Chandu that is hardly known is that of his love of travel and photography. Since his days in Africa, he has amassed a huge collection of photos of personalities ranging from Indian and African political figures to Indian music and acting giants not only of Bollywood but of the classical scene.
Another facet of Chandu that was always very much appreciated was his prowess in vocal music. Strongly influenced by the work of his renowned friend and mentor, the music and literature maestro, Purshottam Upadhyay, Chandu Mattani developed and refined his art of Indian vocal devotional and folk music. He toured extensively throughout Kenya, Tanzania, Mozambique and Central African States for musical performances at the behest of the Indian Diaspora.
In 1977, he left Zambia with his family and settled in the English city of Leicester. He established ‘Sona Rupa’ one of the first ethnic fashion stores on Belgrave Road, now internationally recognised as the “Golden Mile”. His son Hemant and daughter-in-law Priti, both graduates of British Universities, joined in the venture to help rapidly expand the then flourishing Asian fashion wear business even further.
Meanwhile, his music found new audiences in the UK that kept alive in him, the zeal to better his musical skills. Specialising in Devotional, folk and light classical music, Chandu Mattani was one of the leading British-based Gujarati vocalists. Over the last 30 years or so, he has enthralled thousands of UK wide audiences. His rendering of authentic music during the Navratri Festivals are eagerly awaited by thousands of young and old alike.
As one of the leading founder-members of Shruti Arts in 1983, a non-profit making association, he has played an active role in promoting the best of South Asian Music and Performing Arts in Leicester and beyond in the UK. The best of Indian music, poetry, literature, drama, music classes and workshops continue to be showcased throughout the year. Shruti Arts has established a name for excellence in promotion of the best of music and culture the world over.
Chandu also produced his first Gujarati music album in England. His intense desire to promote the rich cultural heritage of India in every home throughout the world led him and Hemant to establish the internationally recognised music label ‘Sona Rupa’, to produce and promote the best talents of the UK and the Indian Sub-Continent.
Over 150 varied albums featuring Indian classical, devotional, folk and Meditation music have been released so far, making ‘Sona Rupa’ one of the highly recognised and respected names worldwide. Virtually all the albums have been produced under the direction of music genius, Ashit Desai, who is also in his own rights, an acclaimed vocalist, music arranger, director and conductor. His pedigree can be judged by the fact that he spent many years working closely with one of the Musical Giants of the Century, the late sitar maestro, Pandit Ravi Shankar.
Chandu’s success in the various spheres of his life could not have been possible without his extremely supportive and encouraging wife Kamla, son Hemant and daughter-in-law Priti. Their six grand children continue to give them immense pleasure and joy.
Thank you for bringing a sense of pride to the Indian Diaspora the world over and particularly, to the Gujaratis of Leicester.
Hemant Mattani
Influenced by his father Hemant, a self-taught musician (Tabla/Dhol/Harmonium), has honed his skills by accompanying dad from a very young age.
Hemant presents a radio programme on Sanskar Radio (Leicester) every Saturday.
We salute you both for your vision and pleasure you have given in promoting Indian classical, devotional, folk and meditation music.
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