Malaysia has some of the best classics when it comes to Hari Raya songs!
There are plenty of head-bopping songs that just make the celebration even better! And one of the top picks is definitely Cenderawasih’s “Bersama di Hari Raya”. While everyone’s familiar with the song, we’re willing to bet that most of you don’t know the story behind the artists who sang it!
So here are some facts about the group and the famous song that you might not know about!
1. Cenderawasih group was formed in 1981, Malaysia
Sisters, Helen Savari and Irene Savari founded the group Cenderawasih in 1981. Cenderawasih 1st gained recognition through their song “Deritamu Deritaku”, a Malay number featured on their debut album recorded in 1984.
2. The famous Raya song was sung by the Indian sisters
Despite their fame, many people may not know that the iconic Hari Raya song “Bersama Di Hari Raya” was sung by Indian artists Helen Savari and Irene Savari.
“Bersama di Hari Raya” came out in 2005 and became a huge hit!
3. Was Cenderawasih only famous for their Raya song?
Other than the iconic “Bersama di Hari Raya” song, their track “Deritamu Deritaku” from their debut album in 1984 quickly gained popularity among music enthusiasts.
After their debut album, they went on to release more successful albums: “Cenderawasih Volume 1 – Samangang Perjalanan Ini” (1984), “Cenderawasih Volume 2” (1985), and “Cenderawasih Volume 3” (1986).
4. Where are the Cenderawasih sisters now?
After Helen and Irene completed their musical education at Berklee College of Music in Boston, the group disbanded and went their separate ways.
Irene now holds the position of President and CEO of the International College of Music (ICOM) in Kuala Lumpur, while her sister Helen, runs an organisation called Jazzaar Festival along with her husband, an initiative that focuses on supporting and developing aspiring musicians who are just starting out in their careers, in Switzerland.
Helen and Irene’s ongoing efforts show how dedicated they are to helping shape the journeys of young aspiring musicians.
And that wraps up our list, folks! Don’t forget to tune in to their classic Raya song as you celebrate Hari Raya! Until then, we wish everyone a safe and Selamat Hari Raya Aidilfitri!
Also read: Top 5 Highlights of M’sia’s 2023 Ramadhan and Raya Season, From Fireworks to Charitable Acts
