Channel i is slated to air ‘Jui Phool: Sabina Yasmin’, a documentary made on the life and legacy of the veteran singer, on September 5 at 2:40 pm, marking 55 years of the legendary singer’s illustrious musical journey.
The documentary, running for two hours and 48 minutes, is divided into two parts: the first part featuring performances by popular artists; the second part exploring Sabina Yasmin’s life and career. Recordings took place at Thikana Resort, Channel i Studio and the artist’s own residence.
Speaking about Sabina Yasmin’s dedication during the shoot, Shykh Seraj, maker of the documentary, said, “Sabina Apa was physically unwell but as soon as the camera started rolling, her bright smile appeared. Without her enthusiasm and cooperation, this documentary would not have been complete.”
Renowned Bengali film actresses Akhtar Babita, Kabori Sarwar, Sujata and Rozina shared fond memories of the singer. Sujata recalled, “The first time I saw her, she was wearing only a frock. I was surprised to learn she was going to sing.”
The documentary also reveals lesser-known facts about Sabina Yasmin. Born Dilshad Yasmin, she became widely known as Sabina Yasmin after her introduction in the song ‘Shudhu Gaan Geye Porichoy’. Actress Kabori admitted she initially did not like one of Sabina’s songs, ‘Se Je Keno Elo Na’.
In the documentary, Sabina also spoke about her international experiences, including meeting Lata Mangeshkar and hearing Raj Kapoor refer to her as “Awaz Ki Devi” (Goddess of Voice).
Beyond nostalgia, the veteran artist addressed challenges faced by artists, particularly in Bangladesh. She highlighted the lack of royalties for singers, saying, “Many artists suffer financially because there is no royalty system. If there were, countless talented musicians would not face hardship in old age.”
Seven contemporary vocalists: Dilshad Nahar Kona, Somnur Monir Konal, Imran Mahmudul, Atia Anisha, Rakiba Oishi, Sania Sultana Liza and Janita Ahmed Jhilik performed 12 of Sabina Yasmin’s favourite songs, including ‘Shudhu Gaan Geye Porichoy’, ‘Eki Sonar Aloy’, ‘Ei Prithibir Pore’, ‘Shoto Jonomer Shopno’, ‘Cherona Cherona Haat’ and ‘Ei Mon Tomake Dilam’. The documentary concluded with a group rendition of ‘Sundor Suborno’.
Reflecting on the initiative, Shykh Seraj said, “Many artists of the previous generation are gradually disappearing, yet their works hold immense archival value. Preserving them is our responsibility and this documentary was created with that thought in mind.”
Sabina Yasmin shared her feelings about the experience, saying, “The way the event went, I am speechless. There was not a single moment that felt boring.”