Musical legacy of the legend Abdul Alim

“Folk music is a very significant part of our rich folk culture. Through a lifetime of dedication and devotion to his art, the legendary folk singer Abdul Alim took our music to a greater height. I sincerely thank Abdul Alim Foundation along with Bangladesh UNESCO National Commission for its outstanding preservation and promotion of the life sketches and songs of Abdul Alim,” said Education Minister Nurul Islam Nahid, as chief guest, in a programme at the National Music and Dance Centre auditorium of Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy on December 23.

As to the question of archiving Abdul Alim's songs in BTV and Bangladesh Betar (propounded by Jahir Alim, a singer and son of Abdul Alim), Information Secretary Martuza Ahmed, a special guest of the event, gave an assurance that necessary steps would be taken. Education Secretary Sohorab Hossain was also present as special guest while Bangladesh UNESCO National Commission Secretary M. Monzur Hossain presided over the programme.

A research-based book on the life of the legend, titled, “Bangla Loko Sangeet-er Amor Kanthoshilpi Abdul Alim” along with a DVD titled “Tomaro Lagiarey” were launched at the programme. The guests distributed awards to folk researchers and singers from across the country, who wrote the book and recorded Abdul Alim songs for the DVD. A documentary featuring the life and songs of Abdul Alim, was screened at the event.

Under the UNESCO Participation Programme 2014-2015, the organisers jointly worked on the theme “Preservation and promotion of the songs of Abdul Alim, the legendary folk singer of Bangladesh.” Later, the singers, who recorded songs for the DVD, performed songs at the event.