Bangabandhu’s birth centenary, independence golden jubilee: Second day of celebrations conclude

Celebrating the birth centenary of the Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman and the golden jubilee of Bangladesh's independence, a ten-day programme, "Mujib Chirantan", began yesterday at the capital's National Parade Square. With the motto, "Mohakaler Torjoni", the second day began with a formal discussion session hosted by Dr Kamal Abdul Nasser Chowdhury, Chief Coordinator of the Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Birth Centenary Celebration National Implementation Committee.

Professor Emeritus Dr Alamgir Mohammad Sirajuddin began the day with his insights on the role Bangabandhu's speeches played in gaining our independence and forming Bangladesh as an independent nation. The formal discussion concluded with an inspiring speech by Hun Sen, the Prime Minister of Cambodia.

The second half of the event consisted of cultural performances by leading artistes in the country. The session began with an audio-visual presentation on today's theme "Mohakaler Torjoni". This was followed by a Potochitro, a fading art form that is one of the most vivid folk heritages of Bangladesh. An orchestration led by Indian musical composer Debojyoti Mishra presenting the March 7 speech by Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, was also performed.

Next, a musical performance by noted musicians Naquib Khan, Kumar Bishwajit, Samina Chowdhury, and Abonty Sithi, enthralled the audience. The musical soiree, directed by Naquib Khan, featured songs on the life and achievements of the Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman.

Kumar Bishwajit sang the number "Tumi Kobitar Motoi Ashol, Tumi Gaaner Motoi Ashol, Hee Bangabandhu" while Abonty Sithi presented the track "Bangabandhu Tumi Ekti Desh, Bangabandhu Tumi Ekta Bhasha". Melody queen Samina Chowdhury sang "Bangabandhu Tumi Beche Acho Bisashey" and Naquib Khan presented the song "Bhalobeshe Shobai Taake Daakten Bangabandhu". The piece ended with a group routine where all the four singers performed "Joy Mujiber Joy".

A theatrical sound and light show titled, "Hazar Bochorer Sreshto Bangali", highlighting the importance of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman's speeches, took over the stage next. The performance, produced by Creation Unlimited, was directed by Dhali Al Mamun. The light and sound coordinator for this recital was Nasirul Haque Khokon.

The day concluded with a fusion medley by two generations of musicians led by Adity Mohsin, Sharmin Sultana Sumi, Tashfee, and George Lincoln D'Costa. Renowned rock band Chirkutt arranged this segment. The performance featured popular songs like "Jatir Jonok Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman", "Karar Oi Louho Kopat" and "Teer Hara Ei Dheuer Shagor". The programme concluded with a chorus performance of "Joy Bangla Banglar Joy".