" I actually find solutions in my dreams" -- Farida Parveen

Farida Parveen has established herself as the "numero uno" factor when it comes to Lalon Geeti. Lalon's entrancing message of Sufism comes alive through Farida's soulful rendition and conviction. Over the years Farida has worked incessantly to uphold and promote our folk songs. Her music has not only entertained and enlightened the listeners; it has become a source of pride to us as she has attained accolades from overseas. Here's are excerpts from a recent conversation with the singer:

Any moving experiences?
I was performing once in Sylhet, when it began to pour. I remember the audience had traveled from afar, and rather than let the rain deter them, everyone had their umbrellas, handkerchiefs and plastic sheets up and stayed throughout the performance. I was deeply touched by that gesture.

Two things your fans don't know about you?
Well, my entry into the performing world was through drama! I played the role of "Amullyo" in "Bindur Cheley" where I had to cry bucketloads on stage. I actually won a gold medal for that role! My next choice was to perform Nazrul Geeti. Lalon was actually my third choice but I always like to say save the best for last!

So how did you first start thinking about singing rather than acting?
I have to thank my neighbour for that! On day I heard my neighbour practicing music lessons and I was so drawn to her voice and melody I knew it was a sign from above! I actually became very stubborn about taking up music lessons to the point I threatened to stop eating unless my parents got me a harmonium. Thankfully I didn't have to suffer for long before I got my harmonium!

Why did you opt for Lalon?
That's an interesting story. It wasn't love at first go! I somehow had the wrong impression that Lalon songs were for the bearded fakirs in their dreadlocks. I had learnt only one song, and only performed it on stage at my teacher's insistence. But when I finished my performance, some of the audience began to insist on a few more songs. I could only reply that I'd sing more once I learned a few more. And I guess it's partly my promise to the audience, and partly my growing fondness of the lyrical beauty of the songs, and before I knew it, I was totally taken in by Lalon Geeti...

How do you solve crises?
You'll probably not believe me but I actually find solutions in my dreams. I don't know if it's the philosophical-cum-metaphysical ideologies of Lalon, but whenever I am troubled, I somehow find Lalon in my dreams and it helps me tackle crises.

Any surprising experiences abroad?
Well what surprised me most was when I learned of research being undertaken in Japan on me, titled Farida Parveen Project! The research is part of a cultural study and in particular on Lalon songs. I was overwhelmed to learn that I was drawn in as part of the subject matter! I was also moved when I knew the number of Japanese students at university level who knew of Lalon, and had gathered to meet me personally when I toured there. In the end I had managed to stage 28 performances in one month during my stay there.

Next stop?
France. I had the opportunity to meet a French journalist who had followed Nusrat Fateh Ali very closely. After one performance, he met up with me, and arranged quite an elaborate tour for me in France, from coming January 12.

What do you feel about the remix versions?
The audience will be the judge. In my opinion, if the singer has an appealing voice, and there's tune and melody in the act, Lalon can take on different versions as long as it's not to the point of distortion!

And the Jamdani?
(Smiles...) I like to think of it symbolically! It's a trademark of our country, so whenever I am on stage or in front of an audience, that's what I want to wear.