A new voice renders Lalon's message
However, the newcomer who created quite a stir nationwide singing Lalon's timeless classics, embarked on her musical training with Nazrul and patriotic songs. According to Beauty, "I began taking music lessons from my father; he is a farmer but he has always been addicted to music. At that point I wasn't focusing on Lalon songs. I took part in regional singing contests in several sections: Nazrul, patriotic and Lalon songs to name a few. I won first prizes at quite a few of them. I received further training from Amanullah Khan, Rezaul Karim and Abbas Ali.
"Before the selection round of Closeup 1, I asked one of the contestants what kind of songs the judges wanted to hear and I was told that they were looking for a versatile singer who is comfortable with different genres. I heard the Lalon song Itorpana karjo amar and liked it. I got the tape and learnt the song and at the selection round that was the first song I performed. The judges were taking their time and I was so stressed, I was sweating profusely. Then Ahmed Imtiaz Bulbul told me, 'You have no idea what you just did; you should always sing Lalon songs.' Since then I've come to realise that Lalon songs are my calling."
For all latest news, follow The Daily Star's Google News channel. Regarding her views on talent hunts and their positive impact, Beauty says, "People were not exaggerating when they said that had it not been for Closeup 1 and other talent search shows, many promising artistes would never get a platform. Although I won some local titles, when I took part in the Khulna divisional competition, I lost to a contestant who I didn't even see perform. After that and a few other similar events, I felt the system was unfair and I was frustrated. When we heard of Closeup 1, I was initially indifferent. It was my sister who literally dragged me to register for the audition.
"I'll be eternally grateful to Closeup 1 for providing a window of opportunity. Audiences nationwide as well as overseas, who have showered me with their blessings, will always remain my inspiration."
What's next for this minstrel who has already become a favourite among the masses? "I am a singer and that's what I want to do till kingdom come. I'm inclined to songs that speak of this land. I want to render a timeless message of peace and eternal love. If my songs can touch even a handful of listeners, I'll consider my purpose of singing justified."