In the 1960s, while the world pulsated to the rhythm of the Moptops and Beatlemania, Madras (now Chennai) found itself entranced by its homegrown musical marvel, The Mustangs. Originating from the lush environs of Madras Christian College (MCC), this local talent ensemble carved out a sonorous legacy that resonated through decades.
One key member of this era’s musical tapestry was Capt. A. Ranganathan, a student at MCC from 1965 to 1968. While he intensely pursued chemistry within the academic confines of MCC, his heart soared with music’s lofty highs. Capt. Ranganathan, who later became an esteemed aviation commentator, never forgot his musical roots and continued to play the guitar with the same fervor of his college days.
During his time at MCC, Capt. Ranganathan played for the Selaiyur Swingsters, a band associated with Selaiyur Hall, contemporaneous with The Mustangs. The Mustangs had emerged in 1965 amidst an international explosion of iconic music talent. The Beatles reigned supreme, The Rolling Stones echoed loudly, and even though Elvis Presley might not have dominated the 1960s as he did the previous decade, his legacy inspired countless cover concerts everywhere, including Madras.
The cultural fabric of Madras found potent amplification in The Mustangs. Their remarkable musical talent, undeniable stage presence, and star appeal captivated audiences at every campus event and concert hall. They ruled the stage with their covers of international hits, creating an unforgettable auditory experience for their fans.
Capt. Ranganathan harbored an understandable longing to perform with The Mustangs, a dream that he realized by participating in their practice sessions as a guitarist. Remarkably, he enjoyed this privilege without having to leave his home.
Explaining this stroke of luck, Capt. Ranganathan shared, “In 1967, The Mustangs were gearing up for a Beat show in Madras, which they astonishingly went on to win. Prior to this victory, they had to go through intense practice sessions but were barred from rehearsing in any of the college Halls due to their volume.
. My father, Dr. Anathakrishnan, a professor of Chemistry at MCC, reluctantly allowed them to practise at our house on campus.”
Years later, in a serendipitous discovery, Capt. Ranganathan stumbled upon an old photograph while sifting through long-forgotten belongings. This cherished image captured The Mustangs during a 1967 practice session in his very own room. The discovery inspired Capt. Ranganathan, and he shared the photograph with the band members, suggesting they commemorate the 50th anniversary of that pivotal rehearsal and the subsequent victory.
Reflecting on the celebration, he said, “In 2017, we decided to celebrate the fiftieth anniversary of that practice session. Initially, we thought of inviting 50 friends from MCC, expecting a modest gathering; but to our astonishment, around 150 friends from all over the world showed up for the event, turning it into a grand affair with a spectacular performance at my house in Injambakkam.”
The Mustangs’ performance that day was proof that time hadn’t dulled their musical brilliance. Capt. Ranganathan’s cherished clip of this performance, which he shared with The Hindu Downtown, served as a testament to their enduring passion and the undying appeal of their music.
The story of The Mustangs is quintessentially “Made in Madras”. It is a narrative deeply woven into the city’s musical history, a blend of nostalgia and continued reverence for a band that inspired generations with their electrifying performances. Capt. Ranganathan’s association with The Mustangs highlights a beautiful symbiosis between talent and opportunity, echoing through the annals of Madras Christian College and the broader cultural landscape of Madras.
What began as a serendipitous house practice session in 1967 evolved into a legacy, celebrated fifty years on with the same vigor and enthusiasm. The journey from youthful campus musicians to seasoned performers celebrated worldwide showcases the timeless allure of The Mustangs, a melody that continues to resonate in the hearts of those who witnessed their magic firsthand. As Capt. Ranganathan’s experience underscores, the spirit of music and camaraderie remains unbound by time, thriving even after five decades of friendship and shared musical passion.
