A Year in Review: Defining Moments in Bangladeshi Music

The past year proved to be one of reflection, transition, and intense discussion within Bangladesh’s music industry. From emotional farewells and long-awaited comebacks to personal revelations and public controversies, the country’s musicians repeatedly found themselves at the centre of national attention. Together, these moments painted a vivid portrait of an industry negotiating change while honouring its legacy.

One of the most talked-about announcements came in September, when singer and actor Tahsan Khan, performing at a concert in Australia, publicly declared his intention to step away from music. The statement sparked widespread speculation across social media and entertainment circles. Addressing the rumours, Tahsan later clarified that his departure would be gradual, extending to both music and acting rather than an abrupt exit. Beyond his professional decisions, Tahsan also made headlines for personal reasons, as he remarried this year, once again drawing public interest to his private life.

January brought an emotional moment for music lovers when legendary vocalist Sabina Yasmin returned to the stage after a year-long hiatus. On 31 January, she performed ten songs over the course of nearly an hour before suddenly falling ill on stage. She was rushed to hospital and remained under medical care for three days. While the incident raised concerns about her health, it also underscored her enduring commitment to live performance.

Rock icon James, frontman of Nagar Baul, made waves with long-guarded personal news. Eleven years after divorcing his second wife, Benazir Sazzad, he quietly married US-based Bangladeshi expatriate Namiya Amin last year. In June, the couple welcomed a son. True to his famously private nature, James revealed both the marriage and the birth only in October.

Singer Dilshad Nahar Kona also found herself amid speculation. In June, she announced her separation from Golam Mohammad Iftekhar via Facebook. Later, on 3 and 4 December, she posted photographs of her hands adorned with mehndi while promoting her song Mehedi, fuelling rumours of a new marriage. The speculation subsided once the song was released and its promotional context became clear.

The year also saw signs of revival and renewal. In June, the family of the late Azam Khan confirmed that the band Uchcharon had returned after a 14-year hiatus, with members resuming musical activities. Meanwhile, acclaimed musician Arnob released his first full-length original album in nearly a decade. Titled Bhallage Na, the album was unveiled on 30 October and was widely praised for its introspective tone.

Not all attention was positive. Veteran singer Mujib Pardeshi faced criticism in October after pushing a fellow musician during a live stage performance, an incident many found disappointing given his seniority. In another controversy, singer Partha Majumder accused ghazal artist Mezbah Ahmed of verbal abuse and threats through a Facebook post in June.

A particularly poignant episode involved the late Andrew Kishore. Five years after his death, a tax notice was issued in his name, stating outstanding dues amounting to BDT 72,803. The notice, sent in September by the Deputy Commissioner of Taxes’ office, sparked debate over administrative oversight and respect for deceased artists.

Finally, August marked a significant professional shift when renowned lyricist and composer Prince Mahmud announced his departure from film music, stating his desire to focus more fully on audio songs.

Key Events at a Glance