Prominent lyricist Mahbubul Khalid has released a powerful new musical initiative aimed at confronting the pervasive societal curse of dowry and gender-based violence. Titled Joutuk (Dowry), the awareness-raising track features vocal performances by popular contemporary singers Somnur Monir Konal and Rafsan. The composition carries historical resonance, featuring melodies arranged by the late legendary music director Ahmed Imtiaz Bulbul before his passing.
Throughout his artistic career, Khalid has consistently used poetry and songwriting as platforms to highlight social injustices, humanitarian crises, and the struggles of marginalised communities. His latest work turns an intense spotlight on the destructive nature of dowry practices in Bangladesh, depicting how greed destroys domestic harmony and fuels domestic abuse, including horrific instances of acid violence against women.
Rather than merely illustrating suffering, the lyrics deliver a resolute message of resistance against extortionate marital demands. Lines such as “Dowry is a disease, dowry is agony, dowry is a curse; we shall suffer its torment no more, dowry is a crime” anchor the chorus. The verse composition strongly advocates gender equality, urging families to educate daughters and sons alike and foster financial independence rather than treating women as financial burdens. According to the lyricist, quality education and self-reliance remain the most potent tools for dismantling systemic social evils.
The song has been officially released on the ‘Khalid Sangeet’ YouTube channel, alongside availability across affiliated social media pages and digital platforms.
Khalid’s musical repertoire spans a broad spectrum of genres and themes, encompassing patriotic anthems, folk songs, devotional compositions, children’s music, and pieces commemorating national and international sporting events. His body of work frequently draws inspiration from real-world tragic events to provoke public conscience. Previous notable releases include Aduri, written in response to the severe abuse of a child domestic worker in Mirpur, Dhaka, and Felanire Korlo Guli, an evocative protest song addressing the tragic killing of a young girl along the international border.
Similarly, his track Magurar Phul, written after a brutal attack on a child in Magura, earned him a prestigious BIFA Award for outstanding lyrical storytelling. More recently, he penned Ramisar Bichar, demanding justice for another young victim of violence. Beyond domestic issues, Khalid’s pen has addressed global humanitarian crises, including the plight of Palestinian refugees and the Rohingya displaced population, reinforcing his commitment to cause-driven music.
