Rohan Raj has emerged as one of the notable lyricists and composers in Bangladesh’s contemporary music scene.
Although he occasionally sings, he finds greater fulfilment in hearing other artistes perform songs he has written and composed.
The Mymensingh-born musician rose to wider recognition after Sukumar Baul’s Manush Boroi Swarthopor, written and composed by Rohan, was released on YouTube in 2022.
The song has since crossed 140 million views, bringing Sukumar Baul into the spotlight while Rohan has largely remained behind the scenes.
He has also created several other popular songs, including Amar Sonar Moyna Pakhi, Amar Mayay Poira Jaiba, Tomay Chhere, Emon Ekta Raat Dao Allah, Mone Mone Mile Geche Mon, Barir Pashe Bondhur Bari, Bondhure Tor Premanole and Mone Boro Jwala.
Rohan has written and composed more than 700 songs, with artistes including Sabina Yasmin, Monir Khan, Asif Akbar, Imran, F A Sumon, Kazi Shuvo, Mahtim and Samz lending their voices to his work.
He trained in music under Sanchita Palit in Mymensingh for a year before studying commercial music under Palash Faruki.
His elder brother Rafiq inspired his early interest in music.
Rohan initially moved to Dhaka to pursue business, but after facing losses, he gradually turned towards music.
Today, many young artistes aspire to perform his compositions.
“I want to keep making music regularly. I want to enrich Bangla music in my own way and leave behind my own signature,” he said.
Born Hedayatul Islam Raju on 28 November 1992, Rohan released his first audio album, Bondhu Tumi Kemon Acho, during the audio era.
He now hopes to build a lasting legacy through his songwriting and compositions.
