Preserving the works of Abbasuddin Ahmed
'The generation gap in our nation is so evident, that the present generation is totally unaware of the contributions of the past,' said the Chief Justice, while speaking at the session.
He briefly stated the stories relating to the struggle, love and contribution of his father towards Bangladeshi music.
For all latest news, follow The Daily Star's Google News channel. 'With lyrics from poets like Kazi Nazrul Islam, Jasimuddin and others, he rapidly gained a place in the hearts of millions of Banglees,' said Mustafa Kamal.
The mutual respect that Nazrul Islam and the musician shared was notable from the fact that Abbasuddin's eldest son--Mustafa Kamal was named by none other than Nazrul, added Justice Kamal.
'Hopefully in the upcoming Ekushey Boi mela, there will be another book consisting on write-ups from authors from Bangladesh and West Bengal,' announced Mustafa Kamal. Previously, only one book dedicated to the life of Abbasuddin Ahmed, named Amar Shilpi Jiboner Kotha, was an autobiography. It was Indramohan Rajbongshi, the president of Bangladesh Lok Sangeet Parishad who collected these write-ups.
'Through his songs, the plight of the village folks is easily portrayed,' pointed out Dr. Ashraf Siddiqui, Special Guest at the session.
He further mentioned an incident and quoted Sher-e-Bangla A K Fazlul Haque saying that, with Abbasuddin and Kazi Nazrul Islam, by his side, he could conquer the hearts of millions.
Before ending his speech, Siddiqui recited a poem written by the guest of the session Sabbir Ahmed Chowdhury dedicated to Abbasuddin. Ferdousi Rahman, daughter of the late musician, and Indramohan Rajbonshi also spoke at the session.
An entertaining musical program was then organised where groups of musicians sang popular tracks of the late musician.
Abbasuddin Ahmed, was born on.October 27, 1901 in the district of Cooch Behar. He was famous for his musical contributions to regional Bangladeshi music, such as bhawaiya, Chatka, Jari, Sari, Bhatiyali, Murshidi, Bichchhedi (songs of estrangement), Marsiya, Dehatattwa and Islamic songs.
Abbasuddin Ahmed died on December 30, 1959. He has left behind a lasting legacy for our folk culture.