Remembering: Shahnaz Rahmatullah
Renowned singer Shahnaz Rahmatullah passed away at the age of 67 in the early hours of Sunday. Known for songs such as 'Ekbar Jete De Na Amar Chotto Sonar Gaye', 'Je Chilo Drishtir Shimanay' and 'Ek Tara Tui Desher Kotha' among others, she was an Ekushey Padak recipient in 1992. Celebrities offer their condolences on the tragic demise of the musical icon and share their fond memories of her with us.
Gazi Mazharul Anwar
I had penned the now well-known song, Joy Bangla Banglar Joy, soon after Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman's speech on March 7, 1971. I invited musicians Anwar Parvez, Altaf Mahmud and Abdul Jabbar over to my studio afterwards. On the suggestion of Altaf Mahmud, we all collaborated on the song. Shahnaz, who was quite young at the time, sang the song beautifully. She also collaborated on the song, Neshar Patre Dhele, with me. Be it film, adhunik or patriotic songs, Shahnaz's talent as a singer shone through every project that she was a part of. She was a brilliant singer and human being. Her music will be passed on across generations.
Khurshid Alam
I am at a loss for words at the moment. My deepest sympathies go out to Shahnaz's family and loved ones during this difficult time. On the 8th of this month, Shahnaz and I performed two duet songs at Gulshan Club. That was her first stage performance in two decades. Her husband, who is a close friend of mine, was present too. Just from the reactions of the crowd, you could tell that she was a natural at what she does. She truly touched the lives of millions through her melodious voice. Personally, I think that her song, Shagorer Teer Theke, is a masterpiece.
Rafiqul Alam
Shahnaz Rahmatullah was a passionate and dedicated singer in every aspect. I would say that one would be hard-pressed to find a singer of her caliber, and that too, someone who contributed as much to Bangla music as she did. She was the voice behind some of the most iconic Bangla songs, especially in the patriotic genre. It is truly hard to believe that we have lost such a gem of a singer and I feel that it is the end of an era for our industry and I pray that she continues to live on through her music.
Comments