Eminent guitarist Selim Haider, a founding member of Feedback and one of the most respected instrumentalists in Bangladesh’s contemporary music landscape, passed away on Thursday night while undergoing treatment at a hospital in Dhaka’s Moghbazar. He was 69.
Family sources confirmed that he had been diagnosed with prostate cancer over a month ago and had been under regular medical supervision, with his condition worsening sharply in recent days.
According to Feedback member Foad Nasser Babu, who confirmed the news to the media, Haider was admitted to hospital on October 31 after his health suddenly deteriorated. He returned home on November 24 following improvements but had to be rushed back on November 27 when complications re-emerged.
Doctors declared him dead shortly after arrival. His namaz-e-janaza took place after Juma prayers on Friday at Pukurpar Jame Mosque in Hatirpool, after which he was buried at Azimpur Graveyard.
Selim Haider spent 51 of his 69 years immersed in music, earning recognition as one of the finest guitarists of his generation. Primarily known as a lead guitarist, he was also proficient in bass and rhythm guitar, acoustic drums, and keyboards.
Beyond co-founding Feedback, he played for many of the country’s leading vocalists and bands, contributing to an extensive body of work in both live and studio settings. His musical direction included notable songs such as Feedback’s ‘Eidin Chirodin Robe’ and “Oi Dur Theke Dure,” which remain cherished by fans and musicians alike.
Tributes have poured in from across the music fraternity, reflecting the depth of Haider’s influence and the affection he commanded among peers.
Musician, Maqsood O’ Dhaka frontman, founding member of Feedback and longtime friend Maqsoodul Haque described Haider as “one of the finest guitarists Bangladesh ever produced,” recalling a friendship spanning more than fifty years. In a touching Facebook post, he reminisced about their formative years, countless concerts, and Haider’s unwavering dedication to his craft.
Haque noted that Haider’s resilience in the face of illness exemplified the fighting spirit that defined his career, stating that it was an honour to share the stage with him through so many musical journeys. He urged all to pray for Haider’s departed soul, expressing hope of reunion “till we meet again.”
Miles leader and music artist Hamin Ahmed expressed deep sorrow, calling Haider “one of the most accomplished musicians” he had known. He highlighted their early collaboration during the formative years of Feedback and their extensive work together at Sruti Recording Studio, particularly for film soundtracks, and emphasised that Haider’s guitar contributions across hundreds of sessions had become an integral part of Bangladesh’s musical heritage.
Naquib Khan, founding member and vocalist-music director of Renaissance, also voiced his grief, noting that the country had lost “another great musician.” He remembered Haider as a generous colleague, a disciplined professional and an artist whose commitment enriched every project he touched, while also praying for Haider’s eternal peace and for his place in Jannatul Ferdous.
Legendary singer Runa Laila also poured her tribute, writing that Bangladesh had “lost an exceptionally talented musician,” recalling over thirty years of working with him on global tours and countless concerts. She described him as an indispensable member of her team whose dedication was absolute, knowing every song by heart and approaching every performance with deep commitment.
