Historic Solo Concert by Subcontinent’s Legendary Singer Runa Laila at Shilpakala Academy

In a profound convergence of melody, emotion, and humanitarian spirit, an unprecedented chapter was written in Dhaka’s cultural landscape. The National Theatre Hall of Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy hosted the first-ever solo concert by the subcontinental music icon Runa Laila at this premier cultural center, marking her illustrious 62-year musical career. Beyond captivating the audience with her timeless renditions, the event carried a deep humanitarian message- the entirety of the concert’s proceeds will be donated to rehabilitate flood victims across the country.

Long before the scheduled time, the auditorium was packed to capacity with enthusiastic music lovers. As the legendary artist took the stage around 7:00 PM, the audience rose to their feet, honoring her with a standing ovation and sustained applause that echoed throughout the venue. Despite performing at Shilpakala Academy a few times over her decades-long career, this marked her very first solo concert at the country’s national academy of fine and performing arts.

Organized by Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy with support from the Ministry of Cultural Affairs, the special evening also featured a formal ceremony conferring a lifetime honor upon Runa Laila for her extraordinary contributions to Bengali music and her six-decade-long devotion to the art.

In his chief guest address, Minister for Cultural Affairs Nitai Roy Chowdhury stated, ‘Runa Laila has turned melody into devotion, devotion into her life’s purpose, and consecrated that life to the eternal beauty of music. The entire nation pays its deepest respect to Bangladesh’s beloved maestro.’

Upon receiving the honor, a visibly moved Runa Laila initiated her performance with ‘Desher Jonyo Jara Diye Gecho Pran’, paying homage to the martyrs of the Great Liberation War. She then captivated the crowd with her classic hits, including ‘Shilpi Ami Tomaderi Gan Shonabo’ and ‘Jakhon Thambey Kolahol / Ghume Nijhum Charpash’.

Spanning nearly an hour and a half, her 10-song repertoire seamlessly blended modern Bengali songs, iconic film tracks, and patriotic anthems. The audience enthusiastically sang along, creating a dynamic atmosphere alternating between collective chorus and reverent silence.

Reflecting on the milestone, Runa Laila shared, ‘The greatest reward of my journey in music is the love, respect, and blessings I have received from the people for so many years. My life feels truly fulfilled. Events like this are crucial for passing on music and memories to the new generation. Though I have sung at Shilpakala Academy two or three times in my 62-year professional career, this was my first solo concert. The warmth of the audience has deeply touched me.’

The concert served as more than a musical celebration; it embodied a powerful commitment to social responsibility.

In his welcoming remarks, Director General of Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy, Poet Sheikh Rezauddin Ahmed (Rezauddin Stalin), remarked, ‘We are entranced by the voice of our nationally and internationally acclaimed artist Runa Laila. We listen to her songs in times of sorrow and joy alike. Bringing this legendary maestro to Shilpakala Academy after 62 years is a matter of immense pride for our academy and the Ministry of Cultural Affairs.’

Extending support to affected communities, he announced, ‘We express our deepest sympathy for the flood-affected people of our country. All proceeds generated from ticket sales of this event will be donated to flood relief and rehabilitation efforts, deposited directly into the Prime Minister’s Relief Fund.’

State Minister for Cultural Affairs Ali Nawaz Mahmud Khaiyam attended as a special guest, alongside numerous eminent artists, intellectuals, and cultural figures. The festive atmosphere surrounding the academy grounds stood as a testament to the enduring bond between cultural heritage and social responsibility.

Taskina Yeasmin: Senior Reporter, Pressenza- Dhaka Bureau.