In loving memory of Fakir Alamgir

Several of Fakir Alamgir's close colleagues and shared a few words with The Daily Star, mourning the death of the iconic singer.

"Fakir Alamgir was one of the kindest people I had ever met"                 - Ferdous Wahid

I met Fakir Alamgir back in 1973. He was a dear friend of mine. His contribution in popularising Gono Sangeet over the decades nationally and internationally, remains immense.

His pop songs have also been appreciated by the audience over the years. Today, as he rests in peace, the only thought that crosses over my mind is that I will never hear his voice again. He was the voice of the masses in a newly independent Bangladesh. Fakir Alamgir was one of the kindest people I had ever met. His simplicity and down-to-earth nature always encouraged me to respect my country and its people.

His songs were based on the struggles of the working-class. He was also an amazing writer, and he actively participated in voluntary social welfare initiatives.

Fakir Alamgir's dedication and love towards the people of Bangladesh and Bangladeshi music were unparalleled. We have lost a legend of our music industry.

"Humility and perseverance were important to him"

– Mamunur Rashid. 

Fakir Alamgir joined the Swadhin Bangla Betar Kendra during the Liberation War. I met him at the radio for the first time. He had an amazing charisma, and people were easily drawn towards him.

Fakir Alamgir's songs played a vital role in motivating the masses and inspiring them to fight for independence during the Liberation War. He was an active leader of the Shommelito Shangskritik Jote, and always aimed at spreading positivity through his initiatives.

His contribution to Gono Sangeet is immense. Although he was honoured with accolades like the Ekushey Padak and Bhashani Padak, I never saw any change in him over the years. Humbleness and perseverance were important to him.

As the nation mourns the loss of a singing sensation, I grieve over the loss of one of my dearest friends, an amazing artiste, and above all, a true patriot.

"He always encouraged me to be the best version of myself"                – Rafiqul Alam 

Back in the days of the Liberation War, we had a group known by the name Shoronarthy Shilpi

Goshthi. Mitali Mukherjee, Timir Nandi, Kalyani Ghosh, and many others were in that group, alongside me. I met Fakir Alamgir at Swadhin Bangla Betar Kendra, and within a short time, he joined this group too. He joined us in several performances in India, and I have wonderful memories with him from that time.

I had no photos from our performances that took place under the banner of Shoronarthy Shilpi Goshthi but later, Fakir Alamgir gifted me a photo. Receiving that photo from him is a treasured memory.

He was a keen reader and enjoyed writing a lot. Politics and socio-economic discussions always fascinated him. Fakir Alamgir used to host a show on BTV. After his demise, I got to know that my name was listed as a guest for the programme. This really made me very sad. As of now, the show no longer has a host and I no longer have my friend. Fakir Alamgir always encouraged me to be the best version of myself. His legacy will live through his work, and I will try my best to keep his principles alive.

"He treated me like his own niece"                 - Fahmida Nabi

Our family had a close relationship with Fakir

Alamgir. He used to visit my father quite frequently. We were all saddened by his untimely demise. He was a kind and affectionate man. He treated me like his own niece.

Fakir Alamgir enjoyed his life to the fullest, and always had a smile on his face. I did a show with him in March this year. He was such a pleasant person. His contribution to Gono Sangeet remains unparalleled.

I will always have a deep respect and admiration for Fakir Alamgir. May he rest in peace.