Ayub Bachchu Honoured with Ekushey Padak Posthumously

Seven years after his passing, the immortal voice and guitar virtuoso of Bangladesh’s band music, Ayub Bachchu, has been posthumously awarded the prestigious Ekushey Padak in 2026. Bachchu, who passed away unexpectedly on 18 October 2018, received this highest civilian honour in recognition of his extraordinary contribution to the nation’s musical heritage. Far more than a musician, he was an emblem of Bangladeshi rock and band music, elevating it to unprecedented heights.

Bachchu’s untimely death left a profound void in the country’s music scene, one that remains felt to this day. Fans and fellow musicians alike had long awaited state recognition of his lifelong achievements. While belated, the conferment of the Ekushey Padak secures his permanent place in Bangladesh’s cultural history.

Expressing her sentiments to the press, Bachchu’s wife, Ferdous Akter Chandana, said: “This recognition fills us with pride and sorrow at the same time. Had Ayub been alive, receiving this honour in person would have been the pinnacle of his life. Nonetheless, even at this late stage, the state’s acknowledgement is a unique tribute to his musical journey.”

Ayub Bachchu’s music transcended mere entertainment, conveying messages of love, struggle, protest, and hope. The Ayub Bachchu Foundation, established in 2020, continues to preserve his legacy by nurturing new talent, promoting music education, and implementing cultural initiatives.

His band, LRB, views this award not merely as a personal accolade but as an affirmation of the social and cultural significance of Bangladeshi rock music. Bachchu’s creativity and mastery of the guitar continue to inspire new generations of musicians.

Key Details of Ayub Bachchu’s Life and Career:

Notably, the 2026 Ekushey Padak list also recognises another band for the first time, reflecting the state’s growing appreciation for band music as an integral part of Bangladesh’s cultural landscape. Ayub Bachchu’s name has thus become an enduring milestone in the nation’s artistic history. Though he is no longer with us physically, his songs will continue to live in the hearts of the Bangladeshi people forever.