Multitalented cultural personality Yasmin Labonno has been honoured with a special award at the Swarnamukut Nrityaratna Awards 2025 for her contribution to dance over the past two decades.
A singer, dancer and television presenter, Labonno has established herself across several areas of the cultural scene, earning recognition for her talent and versatility.
The Swarnamukut Nrityaratna Awards 2025, organised by Sohag Dance Troupe, was held at the National Museum auditorium in Dhaka on 10 August.
Labonno received the special honour in recognition of her two decades of contribution to dance, as well as her role as the chief judge of the competition.
Labonno described the recognition as a significant achievement at this stage of her career.
“I have known Sohag bhai since our days at Shapla Kuri. Our journey together has continued from 2007 until today. I have had the opportunity to work with him and perform as the principal dancer of his group at many events. This time, being part of the competition as a judge and receiving this honour is truly special. Any form of recognition is a great source of inspiration,” she said.
The award ceremony also brought back memories of her own childhood and early days as a performer.
“Watching this year’s competition reminded me of my childhood—taking part in competitions and receiving awards. I sincerely thank and express my gratitude to everyone behind this recognition,” Labonno added.
At this year’s competition, Labonno served as a judge in the creative dance category.
She currently works as a regular presenter at Maasranga Television and is also active as a senior dancer at the Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy.
Labonno has maintained an active presence in music as well.
She recently lent her voice to the song Ei Hridoy Chhuye Jao, featured in director Maruf Hossain Sajib’s drama Khwab.
The song was written by Jayanta Karmakar, with music and arrangement by Apel Mahmud Emil. Pranto joined her as a fellow vocalist.
She has also recorded new songs for Bangladesh Television and Bangladesh Betar this year.
On Bangladesh Betar, she regularly hosts the live music programme Euphony.
She also recently presented a segment of Runa Laila’s solo music evening at the Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy.
In her personal life, Labonno recently lost her father. The loss has left her emotionally devastated, and those close to her say she needs some more time to return to normal life.
