Janes Sumon, Singer of ‘Ekta Chador Hobe’, Dies at 4pm

Janes Sumon, the celebrated Bangladeshi singer whose evocative voice defined a chapter of popular music in the 1990s and early 2000s, has passed away, leaving behind a legacy deeply woven into the country’s musical memory. He died today, Friday, at approximately 4:00 pm while undergoing treatment at a hospital in Dhaka after suffering a cardiac arrest. He was surrounded by medical staff at the time of his passing.

The news was confirmed to The Daily Star by fellow singer and lyricist Ethun Babu, prompting an outpouring of grief from fans, colleagues and admirers across the cultural community. For many, Sumon’s death marks the loss of an artist whose songs captured emotion with rare sincerity and resonance.

Born Galib Ahsan Mehedi, Janes Sumon first rose to prominence through his performance of the song Ekta Chador Hobe, a track that would later become emblematic of his career. Although he had already been active in music for several years, it was his appearance in 2002 on a widely watched magazine programme broadcast on Bangladesh Television (BTV) that brought him nationwide recognition. The performance struck a chord with audiences and transformed the song into an enduring classic, securing Sumon’s place in the country’s pop music canon.

Sumon’s musical journey began earlier with the release of his debut solo album Ashirbad in 1997. The album introduced listeners to his powerful yet emotionally nuanced vocal style, setting the foundation for a career defined by heartfelt storytelling and melodic depth. Over the years, he recorded nearly 300 songs, an extraordinary body of work that reflected both his artistic discipline and his deep connection to listeners.

Among his most cherished songs are Akash Kedechhe, Otithi, Ashabadi, Ay Tora Ay and Cheri. These tracks showcased his ability to convey longing, hope and introspection, often blending lyrical sensitivity with a commanding vocal presence. His music resonated particularly strongly with audiences navigating personal and social change, making his songs fixtures on radio, television and live performances.

Beyond commercial success, Janes Sumon’s contribution to Bangladeshi music lay in his authenticity. He remained rooted in emotional expression rather than fleeting trends, influencing a generation of singers who followed. His work helped shape the evolution of Bangla pop music at a time when the genre was expanding its reach and identity.

Key milestones from his life and career are outlined below:

As Bangladesh mourns his passing, Janes Sumon will be remembered not only for a single iconic song, but for a lifetime of music that spoke directly to the heart. His voice may have fallen silent, but his melodies will continue to echo through generations to come.