"Leaving behind my studies, I made a six-hour bus journey with Pandit Jasraj from Ottawa to Toronto" -- Nashid Kamal
And that's not all. Nashid is also a professor at a private university. In addition she is a writer. Her book Jui Phuler Barandah is about the jasmine porch in Purana Paltan where she lived for 21 years. Another work of fiction is the Bangla Ajeebon Basanta, in which she has written 14 short stories. Along side, she hosts a fortnightly series of musical programmes for BTV, titled Amar Joto Gaan. Lastly, she hosts a weekly programme, Bangla amar Bangla for TARA Newz.
Here's a look at the talented Nashid.
For all latest news, follow The Daily Star's Google News channel. What is your most treasured possession?
Undoubtedly my saris. I am particularly fond of the first sari that my father bought me when I was around 15. This was a batik silk.
The wildest thing you have ever done?
In 1982 I met maestro and my guru Pandit Jasraj in Ottawa. He was in Ottawa only for one evening and he was travelling to Toronto the very next day. After a programme, I went up to him and said I would like to be his student. He said that he was off to Toronto the following day. There was no other opportunity to catch up with him, so without batting an eyelid I undertook the six-hour bus journey with him to Toronto. I left my studies. However, it was worthwhile because I came closer to a wonderful person and I am still in touch with him.
Who are your musical favourites?
My favourites are of course Pandit Jasraj, Mehdi Hassan, Lata Mangeshkar and my aunt Ferdausi Rahman. Also there are others like Shahnaz Rahmatullah, Runa Laila and the versatile Asha Bhonsle.
Two things that people don't know about you
One is that I also love Rabindra Sangeet and sing it in my spare time. I am drawn to the deep philosophy, choice of words and the message that each song conveys. Another unknown facet is that I am also a reciter and like to recite poems in my free time.
I read Tagore, Nazrul, Jibonando Das, Sukanto, Gholam Mustafa and poet Jasimuddin.
Your favourite person
My dad, the illustrious former chief justice Mustafa Kamal. He is a writer, orator, cultural personality and an Islamic scholar. He used to host quiz shows and compile the weekly news for BTV in its early days.
Who is your favourite fictional character in books or films?
Hands down it is Scarlett O'Hara in Gone with the Wind. I admire her for her strength of character and her romantic disposition. Despite her privileged upbringing, she rises to the occasion when she finds herself having to till the soil and do everything for herself. She vows to the soil that she will be able to do that. That is the part where I find myself identifying with her. As for her ruthlessness, I can be ruthless when I have to.