Tomorrow, the Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy will host a special event commemorating the birth anniversary of the immortal voice of Lalon songs, Fareeda Parveen. Revered as the torchbearer of Lalon’s musical heritage, Fareeda Parveen dedicated her life to ensuring that the spirit of Lalon continued to flourish through her disciples. To realise this vision, she established the Achin Pakhi Music Academy, where young talents are taught the nuances of Lalon’s songs, preserving and propagating this rich tradition for future generations.
Fareeda Parveen once reflected on her own musical journey, drawing a parallel with her guru:
“Just as my master lives on through his disciples, I wish for my presence to endure through the students of Achin Pakhi Academy.”
The birthday celebration will take place on 31 December at 4:00 PM in the Chitrashala Auditorium of the Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy. The programme will feature discussions on Fareeda Parveen’s life, musical contributions, and artistic philosophy, alongside performances by her disciples and contemporary musicians.
List of Dignitaries Attending the Event:
| Role | Guest |
|---|---|
| Chief Guest | Fareeda Akhtar, Advisor, Fisheries and Livestock |
| Special Guest | Mahbuba Farzana, Secretary, Ministry of Information and Broadcasting |
| Special Guest | Rezauddin Stalin, Director General, Shilpakala Academy |
| Inaugurator | Dr. Mohammad Abdul Majid, Chairman, Social Development Foundation |
| Presiding Officer | Gazi Abdul Hakim, Life Partner & Flutist |
Born on 31 December 1954 in Natore, Fareeda Parveen began her musical education at the age of five under the guidance of Kamal Chakraborty in Magura. She embarked on a professional musical career at fourteen and over the decades explored a diverse repertoire including Nazrul Geeti, patriotic songs, and folk music. However, she earned unparalleled recognition for her mastery of Lalon songs, becoming one of Bangladesh’s most celebrated exponents of this genre.
Major Awards Received by Fareeda Parveen:
| Award | Year |
|---|---|
| Ekushey Padak | 1987 |
| National Film Award | 1993 |
| Fukuoka Award, Japan | 2008 |
After a prolonged illness involving kidney complications, diabetes, and related health issues, Fareeda Parveen passed away on 13 September 2025. Her extraordinary contributions to Bangladeshi music, particularly in preserving the Lalon tradition, will remain an enduring part of the nation’s cultural heritage.
