A cultural extravaganza

The widely appreciated opening event included a dance number by popular artiste Munmun Ahmed and her troupe, to the tune of a 'special' flute, crafted and played by renowned magician Jewel Aich.

Popular actresses, models and dancers Sadia Islam Mou, Aupee Karim, Tarin, Farhana Chowdhury and eminent Manipuri dancer Tamanna Rahman presented Pancho Konnya, a traditional dance drama portraying historical characters along with around 50 dancers of Nrittyalok. This was followed by a glitzy dance number presented by popular dance artistes Nadia and Likhon.

Eminent singers Syed Abdul Hadi and Kanak Champa jived to the patriotic number Bangladesh Tomay Bhalobashi.

Model Tinni, Alif, Fardeen, Lara Lotus, Tisha, Chandni, Shajol rendered some foot tapping numbers based on popular Dhallywood movie songs through the ages.

A captivating music number, titled Tomader hath dhorey was rendered by three judges of Close Up, Kumar Bishwajit, Samina Chowdhury and Ahmed Imtiaz Bulbul along with the 10 finalists. Nolok, Rajib and Beauty's beautiful rendition of Ek poshla bhalobashar brishtitey also received a big applause.

Three popular bands, LRB, Renaissance and Shironamhin, presented a choral rendition of an inspirational song, Eki pothey amra pothochari. Another attraction was a dazzling dance sequence by Ferdous and Moushumi from their upcoming film, Swampanwala.

The audience also responded warmly to performances by veteran singers Sabina Yasmin, Runa Laila, Shakila Zafar, Subir Nandi and Momtaz.

Dancers Shibli Mohammed, Shamim Ara Nipa and their group had the audience tapping their feet and loudly clapping.

Ultimately, the event underscored Bangladesh's rich and vibrant culture through the mix of dance and music.