Bengali Folk Music Captivates Sydney Audience

In the midst of the mechanical routine of expatriate life, a touch of soul arrived in the form of Bangladesh’s beloved folk music ensemble, Joler Gaan. During a special evening held in Sydney, Australia, the group mesmerised the audience with the enchanting tunes of Rahul Anand’s flute, accompanied by none other than Wendy Lindsay, a prominent leader of the Australian Liberal Party. The event, held last Sunday at the Brian Brown Theatre in Bankstown, saw several hundred expatriate Bengalis and Australian citizens immersed in the magical harmonies of Joler Gaan.

As Rahul Anand’s flute melodies filled the theatre, Wendy Lindsay, attending as an invited guest, was visibly moved. When called to the stage by Anand, she eagerly took the microphone, expressing her admiration: “I do not know your language, yet I feel an inexplicable connection to the earth in these notes.” In a rare cultural gesture, she then sang the legendary Australian song “As Gentle Tides Go Rolling By” by Wendy Matthews, harmonising solely with Anand’s flute accompaniment. The audience erupted in applause at this unique intercultural moment.

The performance featured not only Rahul Anand and Konok Aditya but also local Sydney-based musicians, creating a rich musical tapestry. Anand’s handcrafted instruments—including Shuktara, Mamata, Ghungur, and Mandira—added a distinctive artistic dimension. The evening also marked the premiere of Joler Gaan’s latest composition, “Jhukur Jhuk”, performed alongside members of Sydney’s Rock Cassette and Charu bands, who contributed percussion, dhol, kahon, and guitar. Together, the combination of flute, drums, conch shells, and khanjani evoked the earthy aroma and lush landscapes of Bengal in the heart of Sydney.

The event was organised to celebrate the launch of Chander Hat, a social and welfare-oriented organisation advocating for the rights and safety of international students and immigrants. Organisers confirmed that all proceeds from the evening will be allocated to charitable initiatives. Attendees expressed that the authentic folk tunes rekindled their sense of patriotism and offered a moment of peace amid the rigours of life abroad.

Currently, Joler Gaan continues its musical journey across four Australian cities, spreading stories and songs from Bangladesh to expatriate and local audiences alike.