Fakir Alamgir reflects on the significance of May Day

Ekushey Padak awardee and Shadhin Bangla Betar Kendra artiste Fakir Alamgir is one of the leading exponents of Gono Sangeet -- the songs of the masses, in Bangladesh. Infusing modernism with traditional songs, his recognition has stretched far and beyond. He has always been a strong voice for the working-class commoners in the country. On the occasion of May Day 2021, the singer shared a few thoughts with The Daily Star.

What does May Day mean to you?

May Day, also known as International Workers' Day, is celebrated with a pledge to establish the rights of workers across the globe. This day holds paramount significance for the working class. The day is celebrated for establishing the right to work for eight-hour per day, which was an important milestone for the labour movement. Every year, the importance of this day is getting more and more recognition.

What was the history behind May Day?

May 1 was chosen to be International Workers' Day to commemorate the 1886 Haymarket affair in Chicago. On May 1, 1886, there was a general strike for the eight-hour workday. On May 4, the police acted to disperse a public assembly in support of the strike by firing on the workers. The event led to the deaths of thirty-eight civilians with hundreds of workers injured. Hundreds of labour leaders and sympathizers were later rounded-up and four were executed by hanging, after a trial that was seen as a miscarriage of justice.

The workers' sacrifice was later recognised and the government accepted their demands afterward. Workers had to sacrifice their lives to establish their rights and emerged victorious that day.

This is the second consecutive May Day celebrated amid a pandemic. What are your thoughts regarding this?

During the pandemic, May Day celebrations have been different, as thousands are getting affected by the virus and many of them dying. May Day is about celebrating the working class, but unfortunately, due to nature's much dismay, they are forced to refrain from celebrating. We must adhere to the health and safety protocols and avoid social gatherings. Yet, May Day is here and I welcome this day with utmost gratitude.

Are the workers still deprived of their rights?

It is very unfortunate, yet it is true that workers across the globe are still deprived of their basic rights. Child labour is still a threat in developing worlds. Women labourers are yet to gain equal payment opportunities.

 In our country, during the Rana Plaza tragedy, thousands of workers gave their life and yet the survivors are deprived of their rights today. Overall, workers and labourers are still deprived in every sphere.

Many of your popular songs are based on May Day. Can you mention some of them?

My personal favourites are "Naam Tar Chhilo Henry", "1886 Shaler Pohela May Chicago", "Duniyar Mojdur Bhai Shob" and "Buk Bedhe Lorte Hobe" among others. All of these songs are widely popular and appreciated by everyone.

Over the years, I have written and composed a wide array of songs on May Day and I have performed them for the masses, both at home and abroad.

Why did you choose to pursue the genre of Gono Sangeet?

Gono Sangeet is particularly inspired by the journey of labourers. I believe that the daily workers are our biggest asset, as they form the foundation of our economy. In addition, be it a revival of our human rights to our language in 1952, the Liberation War in 1971, or the rebellion in 1990 -- no revolution is complete without Gono Sangeet. It speaks for the masses and is the key to positive reformation in society. Thus, I treasure this genre of music as an asset and love it with all my heart.

Translated by Rasheek Tabassum Mondira