From the cassette-and-CD era of the 1990s, through the album culture of the 2000s, to today’s digital age, Ganchil has silently witnessed the evolution of Bengali music. This journey was celebrated in a unique gathering, bringing together musicians, composers, lyricists, and the behind-the-scenes craftsmen of the industry. The occasion marked the twentieth anniversary of Ganchil, one of Bangladesh’s most respected music production houses.
The celebration was not merely a nostalgic remembrance of the past; it was a declaration of the company’s intent to move confidently into the future, honouring its heritage while embracing new forms, a refreshed logo, and expanded plans. The event formally announced Ganchil’s new guiding principle: “Legacy never rests; it constantly reinvents itself.”
Founded in late 2005 by Nakeeb Khan, Kumar Bishwajit, Asif Iqbal, and Reza Rahman, Ganchil has grown into a mature music production house over two decades. Today, Asif Iqbal serves as its sole custodian. In a special tribute, the three founders—Nakeeb Khan, Kumar Bishwajit, and Reza Rahman—were presented with commemorative crests. Although Kumar Bishwajit was unable to attend in person from Canada, he joined via video call, sharing his gratitude and heartfelt reflections.
During the award ceremony, the founders reminisced about Ganchil’s journey, expressing pride in its recent achievements and extending their best wishes for the future, hoping the institution continues to shape Bangladesh’s musical landscape.
The evening’s cultural programme followed, featuring performances by Konal, Salma, Kishore, Mahadi, Dola, Niloy, Nahid Hasan, and Tarik Mridha, among others. Their renditions included popular songs penned by Asif Iqbal and released under the Ganchil banner.
Two Decades of Ganchil’s Musical Journey
| Year | Key Events & Challenges | Major Activities & Releases |
|---|---|---|
| 2005 | Establishment | Launch of albums ‘Adda’ and ‘Beauty’r Charondashee’ |
| 2008–09 | Piracy surge & FM radio influence | Decline in album sales |
| 2012 | Temporary halt in album releases | Restructuring and planning for future initiatives |
| 2015 | Revival and renewed activity | Release of new songs, albums, and digital projects |
| 2026 | 20th Anniversary Celebrations | Launch of refreshed branding, Ganchil Originals, and ‘Path-er Golpo’ projects |
The company’s upcoming plans were unveiled by Asif Iqbal, including theatre productions, the second season of Ganchil Originals, new songs, and Path-er Golpo, a series focusing on unexplored aspects of Bangladesh.
The evening concluded with the screening of the music video for ‘O Jan’, performed by Konal and Niloy. The lyrics were written by Asif Iqbal, with music jointly composed by Avral Sahir and Lincoln from West Bengal, and arranged by Avral Sahir. The video, directed by Tanim Rahman Anshu, was shot against the stunning landscapes of Jumsa, Mustang, Nepal, featuring performers Sunerah Binte Kamal and Farrokh Ahmed Rehan. The audience erupted into applause, recognising ‘O Jan’ as a symbol of Ganchil’s new chapter.
Hosted by Mousumi Mou and Abu Hena Roni, the event was further enlivened by the presence of luminaries including Shahid Mahmud Jangi, Rafiqul Alam, Samina Chowdhury, Manam Ahmed, Shaukat Ali Emon, Chayanika Chowdhury, Dhrub Guha, Minar Rahman, Adit, Mehrab, Belal Khan, Shahriar Rafat, Mir Masum, Sithy Saha, and Juel Morshed.
The celebrations underscored a compelling truth: Ganchil is not merely a music production house; it is a living bridge between time, memory, and legacy, constantly reinventing itself while honouring the past.