A significant and symbolically charged chapter has been added to Bangladeshi cinema music with the formal Dhallywood debut of celebrated poet, lyricist, composer and singer Kabir Suman. After a long and illustrious musical career spanning decades, this marks the first time that Suman has written lyrics and composed music specifically for a Dhaka-based full-length feature film. His entry into mainstream Bangladeshi cinema comes through Jhamela, a family-centric film, and has already generated considerable interest among film critics, music connoisseurs and general audiences alike.
Kabir Suman’s music has long occupied a distinctive position within Bangladesh’s cultural landscape. Known for its strong literary value, social consciousness and emotional depth, his work has influenced listeners across generations. His live performances in Dhaka and other major cities remain memorable milestones for many admirers. Until now, however, his creative engagement in Bangladesh was largely confined to the realm of audio music and live concerts. His transition into mainstream cinema is therefore being viewed as an expansion of his artistic relationship with Bangladeshi culture, broadening both his own repertoire and the musical vocabulary of Dhallywood.
The film Jhamela features a total of six songs, three of which have been written and composed by Kabir Suman. A notable aspect of the soundtrack is that all six songs are performed solo by renowned playback singer Asif Akbar. Rather than functioning as standalone musical interludes, the songs have been designed to align closely with the narrative arc of the film, reflecting its emotional tensions, interpersonal relationships and evolving conflicts. Music arrangement duties have been handled by Ujjal Sinha and Azmir Babu, both recognised for blending contemporary musical sensibilities with story-driven composition.
The collaboration between Kabir Suman and Asif Akbar is not entirely new. Asif has often spoken of his admiration for Suman’s music since childhood, an admiration that gradually developed into professional collaboration outside the film industry. Their previous joint works were well received by listeners, and their reunion in a cinematic context is expected to add a distinctive dimension to Jhamela’s soundtrack.
The film stars veteran actress Dolly Zahur alongside Shyamal Mawla, Tanjika Amin, Nausaba Ahmed and Rashed Mamun Apu. Director Yamin Elan has described Jhamela as a wholly original Bangladeshi story, focusing on family relationships, everyday struggles and emotionally charged conflicts. Shooting was completed in two phases across locations in Dhaka and Gazipur. The producers are aiming for a release during one of the Eid festivals later this year, targeting family audiences in theatres.
Key Film and Music Details
| Category | Information |
|---|---|
| Film Title | Jhamela |
| Total Songs | 6 |
| Songs by Kabir Suman | 3 (lyrics and composition) |
| Playback Singer | Asif Akbar |
| Music Arrangement | Ujjal Sinha, Azmir Babu |
| Director | Yamin Elan |
| Planned Release | Eid, later this year |
Overall, the fusion of Kabir Suman’s intellectually rich musical sensibility with Asif Akbar’s distinctive vocal delivery is widely expected to enrich the soundtrack of Jhamela. Industry observers believe this collaboration may stand as a memorable addition to Dhallywood’s evolving musical tradition, while also opening new creative pathways for literary-driven film music in Bangladesh.