A special memorial event is set to honour the legendary Lalon folk singer Farida Parveen, marking her first birthday celebration since her passing. The event has been organised by her own music academy, Achin Pakhi Sangeet Academy, and will take place at the National Theatre Hall of Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy tomorrow, Tuesday, 13 January, at 4:00 pm.
Originally, the programme was scheduled for 31 December, coinciding with the 71st birth anniversary of the celebrated singer. However, in light of the national mourning following the death of former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia, the event was postponed. A new date was subsequently set to properly commemorate the iconic artist.
Speaking about the event, Farida Parveen’s husband and acclaimed flautist Gazi Abdul Hakim stated, “This special occasion is intended to pay tribute to her immense contribution to music and culture.”
Event Details and Guest List
| Role | Name | Remarks |
|---|---|---|
| Chief Guest | Farida Akhter (Advisor, Fisheries & Livestock) | Will deliver the keynote address |
| Special Guest | Mahbuba Farzana (Secretary, Information & Broadcasting) | Will present tribute to the artist |
| Special Guest | Rezauddin Stalin (Director General, Shilpakala Academy) | Representing the Academy |
| Inaugurator | Dr. Mohammad Abdul Majid (Chairman, Social Development Foundation) | Will officially inaugurate the ceremony |
| Presiding Officer | Gazi Abdul Hakim | Will chair the event |
Born on 31 December 1954 in Singra, Natore, Farida Parveen began her professional musical career at the tender age of 14. She was officially listed as an artist by Rajshahi Radio in 1968, specialising initially in Nazrul Sangeet. Over the years, she carved a unique niche in patriotic music and Lalon folk songs, receiving formal training under the esteemed mystic musician Sadhak Mokshed Ali Shah.
Her outstanding contribution to music has been recognised through numerous awards, including the Ekushey Padak in 1987 and the National Film Award for Best Playback Singer in 1993. Internationally, she was honoured with the Fukuoka Asian Culture Prize in 2008 by the Government of Japan, underscoring her global acclaim.
The memorial event is not only intended to celebrate Farida Parveen’s remarkable musical legacy but also to inspire future generations of musicians. Through her songs and spiritual devotion, the singer’s memory continues to resonate with music lovers both in Bangladesh and abroad.