Legendary Bangladeshi band Souls celebrated its 50-year milestone with a concert titled "Mastercard Presents Souls Unplugged: 50 Years of Timeless Music" last Friday (May 2) at Radisson Blu Chattogram Bay View. Founding members and performers from across the decades reunited for an unforgettable night filled with music, memories, and heartfelt tributes.

The event, organised by M&M Business Communications, opened with a short documentary narrated by Partha Barua, a key member of the band for over 35 years. 

As he recounted Souls' journey, the screen lit up with images of beloved past members—Sazed Ul Alam, Naquib Khan, Tapan Chowdhury, Lulu, Pilu Khan, Shahedul Alam, Subrata Barua Ronny, Ahmed Nawaz, and Ayub Bachchu—some of whom have since passed away. Their contributions were honoured with deep gratitude.

Partha then took the stage with "Bondho Hoye Geche", a performance that echoed the passage of time both for the band and for himself. 

He captivated the audience with songs celebrating his beloved city—Chattogram—and its vibrant spirit, performing "Aiyona Aiyona" and verses praising the hills, sea, and music of the region.

He also shared the backstory behind "Dekha Hobe Bondhu", revealing how lyricist Noor had once told him he was unhappy with the song—never to be seen again. Despite the personal memory, the song remains one of Partha's favourites.

Among the night's standout moments was Partha's rendition of "Mon Shudhu Mon Chuyeche", originally sung by Naquib Khan. 

Asking for forgiveness if it seemed disrespectful, Partha performed the song as Naquib's smiling image appeared onscreen. He then followed with Tapan Chowdhury's "E Emon Porichoy", drawing thunderous applause.

Naquib Khan later joined on stage, reflecting on the band's early days. "Before I joined, Souls only performed cover songs. I thought, without original music, we wouldn't last," he said. 

He recalled composing "Nodi Eshey Poth", based on a poem by Chattogram University student Khaleed. The song, featured on Souls' debut album, became a major hit. As a bonus, he performed another classic—"Tore Putuler Moto Kore Shajai".

Partha returned with covers like Subir Sen's "Sharadin Tomay Bhebe" and other fan favourites including "Cholo Na Ghure Ashi Ojanate", "Banshi Shune Aar Kaj Nai", and "Nishshongota". Vocalist Nasim Ali Khan also delivered a soulful performance.

In the final segment, members past and present reunited for a chorus performance of "Ei Mukhorito Jiboner", concluding the night on a high note. 

Founding member Lulu, visibly emotional, said, "I am certain Souls will live to be a hundred. With leaders like Ayub Bachchu and Partha Barua, the legacy is in strong hands."

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Pilu Khan reflected on his six-year tenure with the band, while Ahmed Nawaz remembered late colleagues including Subroto Barua Roni, Shahedul Alam, and Ayub Bachchu.

What began in 1973 with just two members has now become a musical institution. Last Friday's concert not only celebrated 50 years of Souls, but also reaffirmed the band's enduring legacy in Bangladeshi music.

Syed Mohammad Kamal, Country Manager of Mastercard Bangladesh, said, "At Mastercard, we believe in the power of music & culture to create truly priceless experiences — moments that transcend time and unite us all. We're honored to be part of SOULS Unplugged, a tribute to 50 iconic years of the legendary band. This celebration of timeless melodies, the magic of live performance, and the deep connection between artists and fans perfectly captures our mission: to bring people together through unforgettable experiences."

"With 'Mastercard presents SOULS Unplugged: 50 Years of Timeless Music,' we celebrated not just the legacy of a legendary band, but the soul of a generation. At M&M Business Communications, we believe in curating moments that transcend time, and this event was a tribute to music, memory, and magic," said Manzuma Murshed, Founder & CEO, M&M Business Communications.