“Mayer moto apon keho nai re” (There is no one as close as a mother)—whenever this emotionally charged song playing tribute to maternal love resonates through the realm of Bengali music, the voice that echoes deeply in people’s hearts belongs to the artist Rumana Islam.
Rumana Islam is not merely a talented singer; she is the torchbearer of a rich tradition in Bangladesh’s arts and culture. She inherited a unique artistic legacy from her father, the illustrious personality of Bangladeshi cinema and music, Khan Ataur Rahman, and her mother, the renowned 1950s and 60s vocalist Mahbuba Rahman.
Her artistic journey began as a child artist under the name “Baby Shraboni” in the 1970 film Apon Por. Her deep connection with music, however, had commenced even earlier in her childhood.
The iconic song Mayer moto apon keho nai re, rendered in her soulful voice, remains a deeply emotional memory for listeners of Bengali music. Similarly, her rendition of Mon majhi tor boitha ne re, ami ar baite parlam na holds a special place in the hearts of music lovers. Both tracks featured in the film Din Jai Kotha Thake, directed by her father, Khan Ataur Rahman, who also wrote, composed, and produced the project.
That magical childhood voice gradually evolved into the sophisticated, distinct vocal style of a mature artist. Across various genres, including playback singing and modern Bengali music, Rumana Islam established her own identity and musical flair. By giving voice to the creations of the country’s most eminent lyricists and composers, she enriched the golden treasury of Bengali song, earning love and admiration both at home and among the diaspora abroad.
Her multifaceted career also includes involvement in music programmes and talent hunts. She served as a judge on musical shows broadcast by Bangladesh Television and appears regularly on various private television channels, performing both her original repertoire and timeless classics from the golden era of Bengali music. She has also released several successful music albums.
Alongside her musical career, she remains actively involved in various social and cultural activities. Her ancestral home is located in the historically rich district of Manikganj, and she completed her higher education at Holy Cross College and Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology (BUET).
Today, 12 August, marks the birthday of this beloved artist.
When she sang as a young girl,
“Mayer moto apon keho nai re”,
few could have predicted that her gentle, youthful voice would secure such an enduring place in the collective memory of Bengali music.
Decades have passed, bringing maturity to her vocal range, yet that initial warmth remains undiminished.
Happy Birthday, dear Rumana Islam. May the golden memories of Bengali music continue to thrive through your voice for many years to come. Wishing you a future filled with joy, beauty, and brilliance.
Heartfelt wishes, endless love, and warmest warm greetings on your birthday.
May you stay healthy, well, and continue to illuminate our hearts with your song.
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