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Move over Shah Rukh Khan, there's another performer at Band Stand

If you walk past Band Stand after 8 pm, you may hear the faint sound of an accordion against the sea breeze. Standing opposite actor Shah Rukh Khan's house, Vency Lobo has been playing the instrument nightly from 8 pm to midnight, for the last six months. Born and brought up in Mumbai, 57-year-old Lobo said he had been living in Goa for 23 years and recently relocated.

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Vency Lobo plays his accordion to entertain visitors at Bandstand in Bandra
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If you walk past Band Stand after 8 pm, you may hear the faint sound of an accordion against the sea breeze. Standing opposite actor Shah Rukh Khan's house, Vency Lobo has been playing the instrument nightly from 8 pm to midnight, for the last six months. Born and brought up in Mumbai, 57-year-old Lobo said he had been living in Goa for 23 years and recently relocated.

Working as a senior auditor in the defence accounts department during the day, the nights are reserved for his red accordion. "I play it while going to work in the train from Bandra to Churchgate, and also on my way back," said Lobo, who seemed possessed by his instrument.

Through his music, he earns Rs1,000 a day, which bystanders drop in his hat. "I don't play for money, but I don't refuse it if people want to give. I earn well for myself but use this money for travelling to Band Stand," said the Bandra resident.

He said he was taught by a man named Mr Rego 30 years ago, who 70 years old at the time. Lobo says he has been playing for so many years, he doesn't remember when he started. "I played in five star restaurants in Goa and a few restaurants in Mumbai. When the monsoon arrives, I will have to stop playing here, and will look for work in hotels then. I am retiring in three years, so I need this, else I won't be able to live," he said.

Lobo added that he plays waltz, tango and other popular music besides hymns and Christmas carols. On being asked if SRK's popularity has got anything to do with him getting public attention, he said: "He's human, just like anyone else, but it is possible that people who have come to see him may drop in to listen to me."

Lobo claimed that he has been kicked out of his house by his family and was robbed by a stranger he befriended and sheltered. He feels he will not receive his pension because he was caught napping at work.

"People dont like it when I play my accordion. People in the train shout at me and tell me my music is horrible and that their day has been ruined. They tell me to stop thinking that I am a professional. I am an amateur player and I do it because I love it. I did not join a band because I know I am not a professional. I am still learning and will continue doing so. I just thank my critics and move on," he said.

He is happy that he shifted to Mumbai, as he said he has received love, affection and concern from people. "Some say I am doing something good," he said, and left to play his instrument for the crowd that had gathered for him to perform.

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