From Masha to Mahtim Shakib: What Bangladesh’s Young Musicians Plan for the New Year

As a new year begins, Bangladesh’s contemporary music scene finds itself at an interesting crossroads. Some artists are choosing patience and introspection over speed, while others are embracing fresh platforms, new collaborations, and ambitious creative goals. From socially conscious songwriting to long-awaited albums and a renewed focus on live performances, several young musicians have outlined how they intend to shape the year ahead.

Asif Arman: Letting Creativity Lead

Among younger listeners, Asif Arman has carved out a distinct identity through emotionally resonant and socially aware music. However, consistency in release schedules has never been his priority. Instead, Arman works selectively, often leaving long gaps between songs. In the past year, he released just one track, “Ashia”, a deeply moving song inspired by the tragic story of a child rape survivor from Magura. The song was widely praised for its sensitivity and courage, while Arman’s earlier works continued to circulate among listeners.

Looking ahead, Arman admits he has no fixed plans. He has temporarily stepped away from live concerts and is focusing on studio work. According to him, creativity cannot be forced: when the urge to return to the stage arises, he will follow it naturally.

Mahtim Shakib: Strengthening the Bond with Listeners

Mahtim Shakib began 2025 on a high note with “Maya Maya Lage”, remaining active throughout the year. His musical audio drama Rabijapon, which he directed himself, received notable acclaim. In the new year, Shakib is aiming for closer engagement with his audience.

He has launched a new YouTube channel, where he plans to release original songs, alongside projects completed in India. More importantly, Shakib wants to dedicate himself to learning—through increased vocal practice, formal training, and refining his craft.

Debashree Antra: A Return to the Stage

Debashree Antra gained recognition after the song “Lage Uradhura” from the film Tufan, where she performed alongside Pritom Hasan. However, health issues kept her away from regular work last year, limiting her appearances to a single drama and a few advertising jingles.

The year 2026 has begun with concerts, and Antra intends to stay busy on stage. Alongside singing, she is returning to dance, news presentation, show hosting, and her professional career. Several self-written and self-composed songs are also in the pipeline, including “Shomachar”. She has lent her voice to upcoming film songs as well and hopes to further strengthen her vocal technique this year.

Ankan Kumar: Preparing a Debut Album

Ankan Kumar enjoyed significant attention last year, particularly through “Long Distance Love” at Coke Studio Bangla, performed with Sheikh Mumtahina Mehjabin, and “Ghuri Ami” from the web film Dimlight. The coming year marks a major milestone for him, as he prepares to release his first solo album, expected around mid-year. Kumar is focused on sustaining the appreciation he has earned in a relatively short span.

Masha: Original Music and Social Commitment

For Masha, 2025 was both creatively and socially fulfilling. Her song “Ektukhani Mon” from Shihab Shaheen’s film Dagi was widely praised. Beyond music, she remained actively involved in social initiatives, becoming an advocate for JAGO Foundation’s Educate a Girl Child programme and collaborating with the British High Commission. She has also served as a UNDP SDG Socialiser and Advocate for the past three years.

This month, Masha will release “Shraboni Rod”, a track from her upcoming solo album, followed by two more songs in the subsequent months. While the album is progressing steadily, she plans to continue balancing music with social advocacy.

Artists’ New-Year Focus at a Glance

As the year unfolds, these artists represent diverse creative philosophies—some driven by instinct, others by structure—but all committed to authenticity and growth within Bangladesh’s evolving music landscape.