As 2026 unfolds, Bangladesh’s young music scene is gearing up for an exciting year. Five rising artists – Asir, Mahtim Shakib, Debshri Antra, Ankon, and Masha – have shared their plans with Nazmul Haque, revealing a blend of creative pursuits and social commitments that promise to keep their audiences engaged.
Asir:
Asir Arman has carved out a unique place among young listeners, though he works selectively, often leaving long gaps between releases. Last year saw only one song from him, ‘Achiya’, which addressed the tragic story of a child survivor of sexual assault in Magura and earned widespread acclaim. Reflecting on 2026, Asir remarked, “I don’t really plan my work ahead. I’m taking a break from concerts and focusing on studio time. I’ll perform when I feel inspired.”
Mahtim Shakib:
2025 began strongly for Mahtim Shakib with the hit ‘Maya Maya Lage’, and he went on to direct the musical audio drama Robiyapon, which received praise from critics and fans alike. For 2026, he is aiming to expand his creative horizons. “I’ve launched a new YouTube channel and want to dedicate more time to it. Some original songs are on the way, and I’ve collaborated on a few projects in India,” he explained. “I hope to strengthen connections with my audience, refine my craft, and continue learning.”
Debshri Antra:
Debshri Antra gained recognition with ‘Lage Uradhura’ from the film Tufan, yet her visibility waned afterwards. Only a drama and a few jingles kept her in the public eye. Now, 2026 begins with live performances, which she intends to prioritise. “I was unwell for much of last year, but this year I’m back with music, dance, broadcasting, and presenting. Some of my own compositions, including the song ‘Samachar’, are ready to release, with more to follow,” she shared.
Ankon:
Ankon Kumar received acclaim last year for the duet ‘Long Distance Love’ alongside Sheik Mumtahina Mehjabin in Coke Studio Bangla. He also contributed to the song ‘Ghuri Ami’ in Sharaf Ahmed’s Dimlight web film. 2026 will see the release of his first solo album, expected mid-year. “I’ve started the year with several plans. By year-end, I’ll know what I’ve achieved and what I haven’t. I aim to maintain the acceptance I’ve earned in a short time,” he said.
Masha:
Masha enjoyed a remarkable 2025, with the song ‘Ektu Khani Mon’ in Shihab Shaheen’s film Dagi winning widespread praise. She has remained active in social initiatives, recently becoming an advocate for Jago Foundation’s Educate a Girl Child programme and collaborating with the British High Commission. Additionally, she has served as a UNDP SDG socialiser and advocate for three years. Her first solo album will release this month, starting with the track ‘Shraboni Rod’, followed by two more songs in consecutive months. Masha shared, “My main focus is on original music, while continuing to dedicate time to social work.”
| Artist | 2025 Highlights | 2026 Plans / Focus |
|---|---|---|
| Asir | Achiya – socially conscious song | Studio work, occasional performances, creative flexibility |
| Mahtim Shakib | Maya Maya Lage, Robiyapon audio drama | YouTube channel, original songs, collaborations in India, audience engagement |
| Debshri Antra | Lage Uradhura, drama & jingles | Concerts, music, dance, presenting, new original songs |
| Ankon | Long Distance Love, Ghuri Ami | First solo album (mid-year), maintain early acceptance |
| Masha | Ektu Khani Mon, social initiatives | Solo album (Shraboni Rod), subsequent singles, social advocacy |
With these five young artists balancing creativity, performance, and social responsibility, 2026 promises to be a vibrant year for Bangladesh’s music scene, offering both compelling original work and meaningful engagement with their communities.