The historic House of Commons in the United Kingdom recently hosted a momentous celebration marking the release of the Bengali song Prem Piyasa, performed by the acclaimed vocalists Ostad Rahat Fateh Ali Khan and Rubaiyat Zahan. The event, which brought together music enthusiasts, dignitaries, and members of the Bangladeshi diaspora, was a tribute to the rich cultural heritage of the Indian subcontinent.
Organised collaboratively by British Parliament member Ruth Cadbury and renowned composer and music director Raja Kashef, the launch ceremony highlighted the song’s cross-cultural resonance. The event attracted a distinguished audience, including Ostad Rahat Fateh Ali Khan and his son Shah Jahan Khan, celebrated singer Asif Akbar, Drub Music Station founder Dhruv Guha, several members of the British Parliament, and notable figures from the expatriate Bangladeshi community.
In recognition of their extraordinary contributions to music, both Ostad Rahat Fateh Ali Khan and Shah Jahan Khan were presented with special honours. The song, released under Bangladesh’s Drub Music Station, features lyrics penned by Kabir Bakul, with composition and musical arrangement by Raja Kashef. The official music video was directed by Saikat Reza.
Expressing his gratitude, Ostad Rahat Fateh Ali Khan said,
“I am deeply moved by the dedication and sincerity of Raja Kashef and Rubaiyat Zahan. My affection for Bengali music is profound, and Prem Piyasa is a reflection of that love. I am sincerely grateful to the members of the British Parliament for honouring me and my son.”
The song is now available to a global audience, streamed on Drub Music Station’s YouTube channel as well as across various domestic and international music platforms.
Event Highlights
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Song Title | Prem Piyasa |
| Vocalists | Ostad Rahat Fateh Ali Khan, Rubaiyat Zahan |
| Honoured Guests | Ostad Rahat Fateh Ali Khan, Shah Jahan Khan |
| Composer & Music Director | Raja Kashef |
| Lyricist | Kabir Bakul |
| Video Director | Saikat Reza |
| Organisers | Ruth Cadbury (MP), Raja Kashef |
| Release Platform | Drub Music Station (YouTube & other platforms) |
| Venue | House of Commons, United Kingdom |
The event not only celebrated the artistic brilliance of the performers but also reinforced the growing recognition of Bengali music on an international stage, highlighting its enduring influence and timeless appeal.