The Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy has postponed its planned felicitation ceremony for legendary singer Runa Laila due to the country’s ongoing flood situation.
The programme was scheduled to take place on 18 July at the National Theatre Hall of the academy. However, organisers decided to defer the event after considering the prevailing disaster situation.
Runa Laila said the decision had been taken in view of the country’s overall circumstances. She added that the academy would announce a new date once the flood situation improves.
Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy’s Public Relations Officer Sabina Yasmin said the organisation hopes to hold the event later this month if conditions remain favourable. She said 25 July is being considered as a tentative date, although it will depend entirely on the flood situation.
Runa Laila is set to perform at two concerts in Australia later this month. She is scheduled to perform in Sydney on 1 August and Melbourne on 8 August. It will mark her return to the Australian stage after nearly a decade. She plans to leave Bangladesh with her accompanying musicians on 29 July.
The academy hopes to organise the felicitation before her overseas tour begins. During the event, Runa Laila will perform some of her most popular songs. Prominent figures from the music industry will also reflect on memories and contributions from her six-decade musical career.
Runa Laila said such initiatives are important for introducing the history and legacy of Bangladeshi music to the younger generation. She also noted that this will be her first solo musical event at the Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy.
With the support of the Ministry of Cultural Affairs, the Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy launched the felicitation series last year to honour the country’s distinguished artistes. Veteran singers Sabina Yasmin and Syed Abdul Hadi have previously received the honour.
