National Classical Music Conference in Chittagong

Music enthusiasts of the port city were engrossed in the melodic notes of classical music at a two-day long classical music soiree, held at Theatre Institute Chittagong (TIC) on February 2 and 3.
Sadaranga Uchchanga Sangeet Parishad Bangladesh arranged the programme, titled “15th National Classical Music Conference”, that featured instrumental and vocal performances by the artistes from home and abroad.
Director general of Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy, Liaquat Ali Lucky, inaugurated the conference as chief guest. Assistant Indian High Commissioner Shomnath Ghosh spoke as special guest at the inaugural programme.
Ustad Sarnamoy Chakraborty gave the welcome speech. Sadaranga Uchchanga Sangeet Parishad's advisor, Dr. Tapanjoyti Barua, chaired the programme.
In his speech, Liaquat Ali Lucky said that a devoted classical artiste's music will never fade away.
Recalling his childhood, the DG of Shilpakala Academy said that though he is known as a theatre activist, he had completed a seven-year course in classical music, and that helped him learn discipline.
Terming classical music “the essence” of all music, he said that this treasure-trove needs more awareness.
He also expressed his hope that the government would come forward to include music in the school curriculum.
Somnath Ghosh said that classical music is the foundation of South Asian music, and that everyone should work to generate global interest in this performing art form.
“Music came earlier than language,” said Dr. Tapanjoyti, adding that classical music was inspired by elements in nature, and in return inspires us to become better human beings.
The music programme started with a choral rendition of “Runuk Jhunuk Baaje Nupur” by artistes of Sadaranga.
Suparna Saha from Narayanganj performed Raga Behag followed by a tarana.
Following the performance of Raga Gara on sitar by Sajedul Islam, Biplob Bhattacharya from India played raila, tukda and qaida on tabla. He also played shahi bol, megha garjan and barsha (sound of thunder and rain) that left the audience mesmerised.
Usad Shahadat Khan, Pandit Bijan Chowdhury, Gopal Misra, Dolan Khanungo, Kalyan Bhattacharya, Dr. Ishrat Jahan, Arnab Chattopadhyay, Malabika Das, Afsana Khan, Kanak Chanpa Kaistagir, Sabuj Ahmed, Rajib Chakraborty and Suparna Saha also performed at the conference.