Priyanka Gope performs at the programme.

Raga-based Bangla songs of yesteryears were the highlight of this month's "Praner Khela", a regular musical programme arranged by Bengal Foundation. The latest instalment of the soiree was held on January 23 at the Bengal Gallery of Fine Arts, Dhanmondi in Dhaka.
Accomplished singer Priyanka Gope enthralled the audience by performing several raga-based melodies, while Kamrul Hasan Mahfuz presented an electric guitar recital at the programme.
Director General of Bengal Gallery, Luva Nahid Chowdhury, welcomed the audience and introduced the artistes and the instrumentalists. She also spoke highly of Priyanka Gope while reading out her profile.
“This is 32nd instalment of 'Praner Khela' which is now in its third consecutive year," said Luva.
Priyanka started with “Ekhon Shomoy Holo Ki Tomar,” a song set on Raga Jainpuri. Former secretary and music exponent Mohammad Asafuddowla wrote and composed the song. “Nayan-e Nayan-e Keno Nayan Rakho” was her next rendition. Amalendu Bikash Chowdhury wrote and composed the number based on Raga Khamaj.
Priyanka then sang one of her favourite numbers “Chintey Paroni Tumi Amakey Kakhono”, written and composed by Asafuddowla. The vocalist was remarkable while producing excerpts from the song “Ami Ek Udash Chhaya Choley Jetey Dao” set on Raga Kaushik Dhwani.
Set on Raga Pilu, a Thumri by Tulsi Lahiri was next.
Priyanka also rendered a Pandit Gyan Prokash Ghosh number, “Ghirey Mor Panthoshalatirey” based on Raga Aahir Bhairav.
The vocalist wrapped up her performance with “Etodin Porey Ekhon Keno Mon-e Porey” based on Raga Anjani Tori. “This is an unusual raga that I learnt from Asafuddowla,” said Priyanka. Music exponent Asafuddowla was listening in rapture.
Asit Biswas on esraj, Iftekhar Ahmed Prodhan Dollar on tabla, Doulatur Rahman on keyboard and Shakur on harmonium instrumentally assisted the singer.
Nilufar Rahman of Eastern Bank presented crests to the featured artistes.
Kamrul Hasan Mahfuz expressed his admiration for Priyanka's performance. The artiste presented several compositions like “Shob K'ota Janala Khuley Dao Na”, “Dukkho Amar Bashor Raat-er Palonko” and golden oldies like “Tumi Ki Dekhechho Kobhu” on electronic guitar.