Bangladeshi rock band Nemesis is preparing to mark its 25th anniversary with a special solo concert titled ‘Eto Diner Poreo Je’ on May 22 at the InterContinental Hotel in Dhaka.
The silver jubilee concert will celebrate the band’s long journey in Bangladesh’s rock and alternative music scene through a mix of live performances, storytelling and appearances by former members. Advance tickets for the event are currently available through Get Set Rock at Tk799.
Formed in 1999 by a group of college students, the band officially began performing under the name Nemesis in 2000. Their debut album ‘Onneshon’, released in 2005, introduced the group to mainstream audiences and helped establish them as one of the country’s leading alternative rock acts.
Speaking to The TIMES of Bangladesh, frontman Zohad Reza Chowdhury described the band’s journey as “extraordinary”.
“We started by performing at small shows where only close friends and family listened to our music. Through our own efforts and the love of listeners, Nemesis eventually became an established band. This concert is our attempt to showcase that entire journey,” he said.
According to the band, the anniversary show has been designed around nostalgia and memories, with members planning to share stories behind some of their most recognised songs during the performance. Guest performers are also expected to join the event.
Reflecting on the band’s legacy after 25 years, Zohad said the members never created music with the intention of becoming representatives of a generation.
“We never created songs thinking whether they would become hits or whether people would accept them. We simply expressed our feelings and emotions through music,” he said. “If audiences and listeners feel that we played a significant role in Bangladesh’s music journey, then that feels wonderful.”
Over the years, Nemesis experienced several lineup changes. The original lineup featured Saber, Reeshad, Maher Khan and Yawar Mehbub. Later, Maher brought his brother Sabin into the band, while Zohad joined after meeting the group during a rooftop New Year’s Eve performance.
During the early 2000s, members including Nondito, Ratul, Dio and Omayer joined at different stages as others left the country for higher studies. Despite the changes, the band gradually developed a distinctive sound that resonated with listeners.
Nemesis first gained major attention in 2003 with the release of ‘Obocheton’ through the mixed album ‘Agontuk 2’. The success of the track later led to the band signing with G-Series for its debut album.
Since then, the group has released four studio albums, including last year’s ‘VIP’. Some of their most popular songs include ‘Bir’, ‘Nirbashon’, ‘Tritiyo Matra’, ‘Egiye Jao’ and ‘Gonojowar’.
Asked about the biggest transformation within the band, Zohad pointed to the changing lineup over the decades.
“Ratul and I are among the few who have remained since 1999,” he said. “Whenever someone joins Nemesis, they understand that the band already has a certain sound and musical approach. We still try to evolve and experiment because growth is important as artists.”
He identified the release of Obocheton and later the second album Tritiyo Jatra, especially the song Kobe, as major turning points in the band’s career.
Discussing the upcoming concert, the vocalist said nostalgia would play a central role throughout the evening.
“Even now, people tell us, ‘Thank you for my childhood.’ Many listeners go back in time when they hear our songs,” he said. “Twenty-five years is a very long time, so naturally the concert will be emotional and nostalgic.”
Known for energetic stage performances, the band considers live shows one of the most rewarding aspects of being musicians.
“When the crowd sings our songs together with us and we share that moment collectively, it becomes something truly special,” Zohad said.
Speaking about maintaining the band’s musical identity over the years, he said Nemesis never followed a fixed formula.
“We like experimenting and trying different things, but somehow the essence of Nemesis always remains in our music,” he said.
Reflecting on Bangladesh’s rock scene over the last two decades, Zohad said the industry had experienced both successful and difficult periods.
“Many great artists and bands have emerged, and many have disappeared too. Somehow we are still here, continuing our journey,” he added.
Addressing younger musicians, he stressed the importance of discipline and dedication.
“If you want to pursue music or anything else seriously, you have to commit yourself fully,” he said.
Beyond his work with Nemesis, Zohad has also collaborated with various artists as a solo performer and became the first musician to perform the national anthem live before a cricket match in Bangladesh.
The current lineup of the band includes Zohad Reza Chowdhury, Ifaz Abrar Reza, Sultan Rafsan Khan, Raquibun Nabi Ratul, Jeffery Ovijit and Dio Haque.
Rumours have also circulated regarding a possible appearance by former member Maher Khan during the anniversary show. Responding to the speculation, Zohad remained cautious.
“Well, everyone will have to come to the concert on May 22 to experience everything,” he said. “Maher and other former members will be there. But people will have to see for themselves what happens on stage.”
PHOTOS: Courtesy of Nemesis
