Until next time …
The second edition of Dhaka International Folk Fest came to a close last night at the Army Stadium in the capital, with calls for strengthening the connection to the roots to fight all evil powers.
“I have seen the exuberance of youth at this festival,” said Cultural Affairs Minister Asaduzzaman Noor in his closing-day address.
“This youth is our strength and our hope. Those who love music and culture are on an enlightened path, and these are the youths who can fight and defeat the dark forces, that kill people at Holey Artisan; kill people on Eid Day at Sholakia congregation,” the minister said in a brief but powerful address.
Veteran singer Ferdausi Rahman echoed the views, saying that the more such festivals will be held, the more our youth will be inclined to the music of our roots.
“This festival has now become an annual celebration, and it is a big achievement for us.”
Anjan Chowdhury, managing director and chairman of Sun Events (who are organising the festival), said their aim to put Bangladesh's folk musicians on a global platform has been successful through live-streaming the festival worldwide via their YouTube and Facebook, as well as on Maasranga TV.
He also hailed the army and police forces, along with private company security personnel, for their relentless work in ensuring a safe festival.
Among other speakers at the ceremony were Bengal Foundation Chair Abul Khair and Dhaka South Mayor Sayeed Khokon.
The evening's performance began before the ceremony, with presentations from Sunil Karmakar who sang songs of mystic bard Jalal Khan. Islamuddin Kissakar then gave the audience a taste of authentic “jatra-pala” through his presentation of pala “Uthula Sundori”.
Bari Siddiqui took the stage next to thunderous applause as he played the flute, and then opened with “Pubali Batashe”. His set-list had both new and popular numbers, including “Malik Chara Kono Goti Nai”, “Ghoreo Jala Baireo Jala” and “Bondhu Kalachan” in his signature soulful voice.
The night's next performers were talented folk singer duo from India, Nooran Sisters; Bangladeshi folk-fusion group Taposh and Friends; and a British-Indian group Sam Mills, Susheela Raman and Paban Das Baul.
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