The stars to be
A total of 16 candidates participated in the final round of the Star Search 2003 held at the Engineers' Institute in Chittagong on October 03. Among them, nine were bands and seven solo performers. The highest number of contestants (six) were from the port city itself, which was narrowly followed by Rajshahi with a number of four.
The panel of judges for the final event included seven popular performers and singers, namely Andrew Kishore, Nakib Khan, Omar Khaled Rumi, Feisal Siddiqi, Partha Barua, Fuad Naser Babu and Manam Ahmed.
For all latest news, follow The Daily Star's Google News channel. Among the performers, Nigar Sultana Shumi and Rezaul Karim Limon were appreciated the most by the audience. With Nigar's high-pitched vocal and presentation, the folk music of the country might achieve a notable boost, especially amongst the young audience. On the other hand, Rezaul's lyrics apparently project his poetic mind and his genuine love for 'good' music. His compositions, particularly the song Aj ekta gaan likhbo tomar jonnyo, were received very warmly by the whole audience. The best vocalist, Rashed has a melodious voice, which promises for a brighter future.
After the competition, the judges took to the stage and gave an informal but perfectly entertaining presentation.
At the awards declaration ceremony Stephen Daintith, Managing Director of British American Tobacco, Bangladesh, and Subir Chowdhury, National Sales Manager of BAT Bangladesh were present .
Having taken place outside the capital for the first time, the boisterous final was an exemplary event in the true sense that proves that such events not necessarily have to be held in Dhaka always. The Benson & Hedges Star Search Programme, having commenced back in 1999, will provide more initiatives to discover the country's young musical talents.