Folk Star Critiques Election Campaign Tactics

With the thirteenth parliamentary elections looming, political discussions are heating up across Bangladesh. From children to the elderly, farmers to poets, conversations about the upcoming vote have become a ubiquitous part of daily life. Amid this nationwide buzz, one of Bangladesh’s most celebrated folk and Baul singers, Abdul Kuddus Boyati, has joined the discourse, offering his observations on the election campaign.

On the evening of Monday, 9 January, Boyati took to Facebook to share a post regarding the elections. In it, he remarked, “Even the parties that once declared music as ‘haram’ are now seeking votes through songs.” Notably, he did not specify any party by name.

His comment has since generated significant engagement on social media, with numerous followers and admirers expressing support and appreciation in the post’s comment section. Many have praised Boyati for speaking candidly about the intersection of culture and politics, reflecting the sentiments of ordinary citizens.

Boyati is no stranger to public commentary on national issues. Over the years, he has frequently used social media to voice opinions on a wide range of societal matters, establishing himself as a socially conscious artist beyond his musical achievements.

Born in Rajibpur village of Kendua Upazila, Netrokona district, Abdul Kuddus Boyati rose to fame in 1992 with the song “Ei Din, Din Na Aro Din Ache”, part of a campaign promoting compulsory primary education and directed by the late renowned writer Humayun Ahmed. During the COVID-19 pandemic, he contributed to BRAC’s awareness initiatives, performing in educational songs such as “Zaina Cholen, Maina Cholen”.

To date, Boyati has released two solo albums and lent his voice to numerous popular advertisements, television dramas, and documentaries, making him one of the most recognised figures in the country’s folk music scene. His career exemplifies the enduring power of traditional music in contemporary Bangladesh, bridging culture, social awareness, and now, political commentary.

Boyati’s recent remarks underscore a wider cultural conversation about the role of music in society and politics, reminding citizens that even longstanding cultural debates often intertwine with contemporary political strategies.