(From left) Abul Khair, Kamal Lohani, Chandana Majumdar and Kajal Adhikari at the album launch.Photo: Mumit M.

Featuring nine soulful songs of Kobial Bijoy Sarkar, “Chokh Gelo Pakirey”, the latest solo album by folk singer Chandana Majumdar was launched recently. The launching ceremony was held at Bengal Gallery of Fine Arts, Dhanmondi, Dhaka on December 11. The album has been produced by Bengal Foundation. Among others, Kajal Adhikari, son of Bijoy Sarkar, was present as a guest at the event.
The album launch marked the 25th death anniversary (December 8) of Bijoy Sarkar.
After unveiling of the CD, Chandana entertained the audience and guests with her moving renditions of Bijoy Sarkar compositions.
Kamal Lohani, director general, Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy unwrapped the cover of the CD as chief guest. Among others, Abul Khair, chairman, Bengal Foundation was present at the ceremony.
Nine songs featured in the album are: “Koto Bhalo Lagey Tomarey”, “Ghar Bhangbey Tor”, “Paglarey Khyaparey”, “Chokh Gelo Pakhirey”, “Amar Pran Bondhuar Desherey”, “Ami Ganer Mala Ga(n)thiya”, “Ki Shapey Kamralo Amarey”, “O Bou Shorshe Katey” and “Kobey Amar Tirey”.
Amit Bandopadhyay has arranged the music.
During her performance at the programme, Chandana covered “Koto Bhalo Lagey Tomarey”, “Chokh Gelo Pakhirey”, “Amar Pran Bondhuar Desherey” and “Ki Shapey Kamralo Amarey” from the album.
Bijoy Sarkar is among the bards who enriched the repertoire of Bangla Baul songs during the early part of the 20th century. Sarkar was born in Narail in 1903. His compositions belong to the Bhatiali sub-genre of folk songs, though they are particularly popular as Dhua Gaan. Sarkar died in 1985.