Alauddin Ali’s 68th birthday today

Today marks the 68^th birthday of the late Alauddin Ali, one of Bangladesh's most revered music directors of all time. The National Award winner passed away after a long battle with cancer on August 9.

Born in Dhaka on this day in 1952 to parents Ustad Jadab Ali and Johra Khatun, Alauddin Ali grew up in a musically rich environment. His uncle, Sadek Ali, and cousins Mansur Ali, Yunus Ali and Momotaz Uddin were all music composers during the 60's.

He started his musical career as an instrumentalist with Shaheed Altaf Mahmud, and honed his craft further working alongside famed music director, Anwar Parvez.

Having made his debut in the film Shondhikkhon(1975) at only 23 years of age, Alauddin Ali won the National Award 8 times, including Best Music Director for the films Golapi Ekhon Traine, (1978), Sundori (1979), Koshai (1980), Jogajog (1988) and Lakhe Ekta (1990). The music director scored an enviable 300 films during his illustrious career.

Over the years, he would become the heart of the Bangladeshi film industry. His partnership with renowned director and lyricist Amjad Hossain was especially spectacular.

Ami Achi Thakbo, Ekta Kotha Bolar, Keu Jodi Konodin Amare, Tumi Jodi Shukhi How and Ronger Manush are among those hits that the trio of Alauddin Ali, Sabina Yasmin and Amzad Hossain concocted together. Je Chilo Drishtir Shimanay, Shukhe Thako o Amar Nondini, Shurjodoye Tumi Shurjasteo Tumi and Bondhu Tin Din are only a few of his numerous mega- hits.

His children -- Afrin Ali, Ajmeri Ali Minu, Showkat Ali Rana, Alif Alauddin, and Adrita Alauddin Rajkonnya survive the legendary artiste. Alif is a successful singer and media personality.

Even though Alauddin Ali is no longer with us, his legacy will live forever through his timeless music, etched throughout our hearts.