Indian airlines have consistently faced criticism on various fronts, encompassing issues ranging from mismanagement to flight delays and mishandling of baggage. However, a recent incident at Kochi airport, which had the potential to add to passengers' discomfort, transformed into an unforgettable experience, all thanks to the intervention of art and an artist.
Among the weary passengers awaiting their delayed baggage at Kochi airport was Shivamani, fondly known as 'Drums Shivamani'. To the pleasant surprise of the fatigued travellers who were enduring a delay exceeding 40 minutes, the renowned drummer took it upon himself to lift their spirits. Drums Shivamani ingeniously hopped onto the baggage carousel, utilizing his drumsticks on the machine to create the rhythmic beats of 'Humma Humma' from the film 'Bombay', a notable collaboration with the music icon AR Rahman.
A video showing this is has been shared by Sheetal Mehta, a Twitter user, and has been doing the rounds on the internet. Shivamani can be seen garbed in a green kurta merrily singing the song and utilizing the machine as a musical instrument.
Sharing the video, Sheetal wrote, "It’s been 40 minutes since we landed at Kochi airport and we are still waiting for our bags to come out. Instead of getting agitated we are getting entertained by a fellow passenger."
Seeing her caption, netizens thought that she hadn't recognised the musician and wrote in the comments section, "That’s DrumsSivaMani. Will never complaint even it’s delayed for 12 hours." Others, appreciating shivamai's gesture and enthralled at this impromptu performance said, "I don't think anyone would mind delays if Sivamani performs impromptu.", while another one wrote, "The great Shivamani, not just an amazing percussionist but good human being as well"
Meanwhile, Drums Shivamani, celebrated globally for his percussion prowess and frequent collaborations with AR Rahman, has made significant contributions to films spanning Hollywood, Bollywood, and Tamil cinema. Notably, he is also a recipient of the prestigious Padma Shri Award bestowed upon him by the Indian government.