Legendary Bangladeshi singer Bashir Ahmed, who was posthumously awarded the Independence Award this year, is set to receive another special honour in recognition of his contribution to music.
A journalists’ organisation in Bangladesh will present the posthumous honour at a ceremony on 8 November at the InterContinental Dhaka in Shahbagh, paying tribute to the late singer following his receipt of the country’s highest civilian award.
His children, Homayra Bashir and Raja Bashir, confirmed the news.
Expressing gratitude to the state for recognising their father’s contribution to Bangladesh’s music industry, the siblings said the upcoming honour had brought further joy to their family.
Although their father is no longer alive, they said his presence remains an integral part of their lives and family through music and the values he left behind.
They described his legacy as a lasting source of inspiration and strength, while also asking everyone to pray for their parents.
Homayra Bashir also revealed that she and her brother are working together on several original songs, which are expected to be released soon.
Born on 19 November 1939 in Kidderpore, Kolkata, Bashir Ahmed received his early musical training from Ustad Belayet Hossain in Kolkata before travelling to Mumbai to learn from renowned classical musician Ustad Bade Ghulam Ali Khan.
He moved to Dhaka with his family in 1964.
Before settling in Bangladesh, Bashir had already begun singing for Urdu films. His song Jab Tum Akele Honge Hum Yaad Aayenge became widely popular in Pakistan.
Known for his melodious voice and command of classical music, he also worked alongside legendary singer Talat Mahmood in the film Talash.
Bashir Ahmed died at his home in Mohammadpur, Dhaka, on 19 April 2014.
His best-known songs include Ami Rickshawwala Matwala, Amake Porate Jodi Eto Lage Bhalo, Jare Jabi Jodi Ja, Onek Shader Moyna Amar, Deko Na Amare Tumi Kachhe Deko Na and Manusher Gaan Ami Shuniye Jabo.
