Channel i Showcases Bengal’s Folk Legends

In a celebration of Bengal’s timeless folk music, Channel i has unveiled a new television series, “i Folk Fever,” dedicated to reviving and popularising the region’s musical heritage. Combining the mastery of veteran artists with the vibrancy of the new generation, the series promises a rich, immersive experience across 23 episodes, set to premiere soon.

The initiative aims to reconnect younger audiences with the roots of folk music, emphasising its cultural significance and the narratives it carries—stories of love, hardship, joy, and the rhythms of rural life.

The first recording of the series took place last Monday at the Channel i studio, featuring the legendary singer Sabina Yasmin. Known for her versatility across classical, patriotic, cinematic, and modern music, she performed five folk songs for the episode. Speaking after the session, she reflected:

“Folk songs are the essence of our soil and our culture. Performing several in one programme was a new and thoroughly enjoyable experience. I am grateful to Channel i for supporting such initiatives, and especially delighted that Jahangir Saeed invited me to be part of this project.”

The series also features eminent performers such as Rafiqul Alam, Khurshid Alam, Konokchapa, Ferdous Ara, Salma, Liza, Luifa, Sagar Dewan, Aleya Boyati, Akkas Dewan, Kajol Dewan, Jhilk, Mukta Sarkar, Parvez, Ashik, Akash Mahmud, and Nakul Kumar Biswas. The programme is produced by Iftekhar Munim Ahsan, with creative direction by Jahangir Saeed.

Veteran singer Ferdous Ara described the cultural importance of the series:

“Folk music connects us to our roots. It reflects life itself—joy, sorrow, love, and nature. Engaging younger generations with these songs ensures that our musical heritage remains alive. Channel i’s initiative is highly commendable.”

Echoing her thoughts, Rafiqul Alam said:

“Bengal’s folk music is an extraordinary repository, yet many songs risk being forgotten. Television gives us an opportunity to revive them and present them to viewers afresh, which makes this project timely and necessary.”

Khurshid Alam added:

“Folk songs are more than entertainment; they are history and culture set to music. Sharing the stage with young artists has been a joyous experience, and I hope the programme inspires a wider audience.”

i Folk Fever is expected to play a key role in preserving and popularising Bengal’s folk traditions, fostering appreciation among audiences of all ages and ensuring that this rich cultural legacy continues to thrive.

Participating Artists

By presenting folk music in a modern format while retaining its traditional essence, the series reinforces the enduring relevance of Bengal’s musical heritage for both current and future generations.