As another year draws to a close, reflection on 2025 and anticipation for 2026 are taking centre stage across the cultural landscape. In conversations with The TIMES of Bangladesh, five leading artistes look back on the past year and share their expectations for the year ahead.
Habib Wahid
“This year, my major release was mainly associated with Coke Studio Bangla. Alongside that, I continued to upload audio content regularly on my own channel, following the same pattern I have maintained over the past few years. As public events were relatively limited, most of my performances took place at private programmes.
I also worked on a few jingles during this time. Overall, my health remained stable, and in 2026 I hope to be involved in many more meaningful and high-quality projects.”
Nasir Ali Mamun
“Overall, 2025 has been a very good year for me. The government honoured me with the Ekushey Padak, which is a matter of great pride. Many talented people do not receive this recognition in their lifetime, so in that sense I feel truly fortunate.
We were also able to observe the much-anticipated birth centenary of SM Sultan in 2025 with due respect. In addition, my 65th solo photography exhibition was held at Bengal Shilpalay, and several of my books were published.
My biggest expectation for 2026 is a fair and neutral election, which the country needs at this time. I also have several professional plans for the year ahead. I wish everyone a very good 2026.”
Quazi Nawshaba Ahmed
“I can describe how 2025 unfolded for me as a mother, an artiste and, of course, as a human being. From an artistic perspective, this year was significant because my first film, ‘Joto Kando Kolkatatei’, an Indian Bengali detective thriller directed by Anik Dutta, was released.
I also received award recognition for the first time in my career for my OTT work in ‘Antara’, which was very special for me. Alongside this, I remained actively involved in theatre-based projects focusing on climate change, issues such as reducing polythene use, tree plantation, working with speech- and hearing-impaired individuals, and creative work with the July Revolution fighters.
As an art therapist, being able to undertake these projects and exhibit them at the Shilpakala Academy was a major achievement. This year, I also tried to be more emotionally present for my 12-year-old daughter, who was deeply affected by the Chhayanaut attack.
In 2026, I hope to refine myself further through more artistic and meaningful work.”
Joy Shahriar
“We are currently going through a period of transition and its impact has been felt strongly in the cultural sector. Concerts have declined, and music releases have slowed. As both an artiste and a citizen, I see this as a time to sacrifice smaller personal interests for larger national priorities.
On September 19, I announced my fifth studio album, ‘Boka’, after a gap of seven years, and two songs from the album have already been released. The full album, featuring eight songs written and composed by me, will be released in early 2026.
Working with legendary lyricist Shahid Mahmud Jangi on ‘Kichhui Bodlay Na’, creating the special track ‘Barandate Bikelbela’ with Elita Karim and collaborating with Jangi Bhai and renowned composer Fuad Nasser Babu on ‘Ei Shorote’ for the BTV Band Fest on behalf of my band Nirjhor were major milestones for me this year.
I look forward to the election and to more meaningful and engaging work in 2026.”
Yasmin Jahan Nupur
“Overall, 2025 has been fairly good for me. After many years, I held a solo exhibition, which was a significant milestone, especially considering the country’s broader situation. Unfortunately, visa-related issues prevented me from participating fully in international collaborations. For instance, I was unable to attend the ongoing Kochi Biennale in person, as well as another overseas exhibition.
In January 2026, we will launch a 10-day artist residency for the first time at our Bhukhondo Art Space in Narayanganj. I hope the coming year is positive for everyone, and that my work and everything else progresses well.”
