BTV revives iconic children’s talent show ‘Notun Kuri’ after 19 years

TIMES Report
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BTV reintroduces Notun kuri after 19 years. Photo : BTV

Bangladesh Television (BTV) is bringing back its legendary children’s talent hunt programme ‘Notun Kuri’, the state-run broadcaster announced on its official social media platforms on Tuesday night, triggering waves of nostalgia and celebration among viewers.

Logo of Notun Kuri, BTV

First launched in 1976, the show became a cultural landmark during Bangladesh’s mono-channel era, discovering generations of young talents in singing, dancing, acting, recitation and other performing arts. It was created by eminent artist Mustafa Monwar and served as a springboard for numerous prominent names in the country’s arts and entertainment scene.

Among its most celebrated alumni are actors Tarana Halim, Rumana Rashid Ishita, Tarin Jahan, Meher Afroz Shaon, Nusrat Imroz Tisha, Zakia Bari Mamo, Tamalika Karmakar, Sabrin Saka Meem and Azad Rahman Shakil; singers Samina Chowdhury, Haimanti Rakshit Das and Mehbooba Mahnoor Chandni; and many others who went on to shine in film, television, theatre and music.

BTV broadcasted ‘Notun Kuri’ until 2006, when changing media landscapes, financial constraints and competition from private channels forced it off the air. The nationwide auditions, live broadcasts and judging processes became increasingly difficult to sustain, despite its popularity.

A planned revival in 2020 was shelved due to the Covid-19 pandemic, but Tuesday’s announcement confirms the long-awaited return. While BTV has yet to release details about auditions, scheduling or format changes, the news has prompted an outpouring of social media posts from former contestants, fans and cultural enthusiasts sharing memories of the beloved programme.

For many, ‘Notun Kuri’ was more than a competition — it was a cultural institution that nurtured young dreams and helped shape Bangladesh’s artistic identity. Its return marks a significant moment in the nation’s television history.

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