Old Bengali Songs Find New Life in Young Voices at “Tara Unplugged”

On a Friday evening in Dhaka, 138 East, Gulshan-1, became the stage for an enchanting musical experience. A formerly unused restaurant was transformed into a concert space, hosting around 200 eager spectators for a two-hour showcase of Bengali classics performed by a rising generation of artists.

The event, “Tara Unplugged”, featured Moji and Company, led by Nandita and Shubhendu, alongside solo artist Animesh Roy. The performances were a mix of solo and collaborative renditions, bringing long-loved songs such as “Mayurkonthi”, “Darale Duare”, and “E Gane Projapoti” back to life. The trio also performed beloved songs like “Aha Ki Anondo” and “Kotoi Rong Dekhi Duniya”, captivating the audience with both nostalgia and freshness.

The musicians were equally impressive. Fuljhuri, a tenth-grade sarod player, performed despite her SSC exams. Kamrul played the flute, Rahin the saxophone, Antar the keyboard, Matis the guitar, and Sudipta handled the drums. Together, their contemporary arrangements elevated the traditional melodies, making them resonate with a modern audience while retaining their original charm.

Founder Jannatul Ferdous Mun explained that “Tara” is more than just a concert series; it is a movement to present Bengali culture to a younger generation through the voices and creativity of emerging artists. Mun highlighted the initiative’s future plans, announcing two more events in December that will continue to showcase the talents of young performers while celebrating the rich heritage of Bengali music.

The evening demonstrated how classical Bengali music can be revitalised and reimagined, bridging the gap between generations while providing an inspiring platform for new talent.