Ayub Bachchu remains one of the most enduring and influential figures in the history of Bangladeshi band music. Nearly seven years after his untimely death, the state has decided to confer upon him the Ekushey Padak, Bangladesh’s second-highest civilian honour, in recognition of his lifelong contribution to music. His name has been included in the list of Ekushey Padak recipients for 2026, a decision that has sparked widespread emotion and celebration across the country’s cultural landscape.
Ayub Bachchu passed away suddenly on 18 October 2018, leaving behind a void that, according to admirers and fellow musicians alike, has yet to be filled. The posthumous award is widely seen as long-overdue national recognition of an artist whose creativity, technical mastery, and unwavering commitment to musical integrity reshaped the sound and ambition of Bangla rock music. Though the honour arrives years after his passing, many view it as a symbolic affirmation that his work continues to resonate beyond time.
Reacting to the announcement, Bachchu’s wife, Ferdous Akhter Chandana, described a complex mix of pride and sorrow. In media statements, she said that while the recognition brought joy, it also revived a deep sense of incompleteness. She reflected that Bachchu would have been happiest had he been alive to receive the award in person. Nonetheless, she emphasised that the state’s acknowledgement of his contribution, even at a later stage, remains a profound achievement for his legacy.
Chandana also highlighted the deep emotional bond between Ayub Bachchu and the people of Bangladesh. His songs, melodies, and distinctive guitar work continue to accompany listeners through moments of love, struggle, protest, and hope. She appealed for public prayers and support so that the Ayub Bachchu Foundation, launched in 2020, can continue advancing the cultural and creative aspirations he left behind. Chandana currently serves as the foundation’s chairperson, overseeing initiatives aimed at preserving his musical heritage and supporting future talent.
Bachchu’s iconic band, LRB, also paid tribute through an emotional message shared on social media. The band described the Ekushey Padak not merely as an individual accolade, but as a national recognition of Bangla rock music itself. According to the message, Bachchu’s fearless creativity, honesty, and devotion to his craft inspired generations, establishing the guitar as a powerful narrative voice within Bangladeshi music.
A brief overview of Ayub Bachchu’s life and career is presented below:
| Category | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Ayub Bachchu |
| Date of Birth | 16 August 1962 |
| Date of Death | 18 October 2018 |
| Profession | Musician, Guitarist, Composer |
| Band | LRB |
| Musical Genres | Rock, Hard Rock |
| Major Honour | Ekushey Padak (Posthumous) |
Notably, the 2026 honours list also marks the first time that the renowned heavy metal band Warfaze has been selected for the Ekushey Padak, underscoring a broader recognition of band music within national cultural honours. The inclusion of Ayub Bachchu’s name stands as a landmark moment in this journey, reaffirming that although he is no longer physically present, his music ensures he remains eternally alive in the nation’s collective memory.