‘Mulluk’ revives a century-old tea-garden story through music

A forgotten folk song from Bangladesh’s tea gardens finds new life in “Mulluk,” the latest release from Coke Studio Bangla Season 4. Rooted in a century-old story of longing, resilience and the search for home, the song brings the history and traditions of the country’s tea-artisan communities to a new generation.
For more than two decades, “Meghdol” has shaped Bengali alternative music by blending literary heritage with the energy of rock. For “Mulluk,” the band explored the history and emotional depth of the traditional song “Pinjorake Pusol Moyna.” Drawing inspiration from the struggles of Bangladesh’s tea artisans and the legacy of the “Mulluk Cholo Andolon,” Meghdol has reimagined the song around themes of migration, resilience and the enduring desire to return home.
The track features lyrics and composition by Shib Kumer Shill, alongside the voices of tea artisans Ronju Tanti and Ranjit Tanti. Their performances create a dialogue between contemporary alternative music and the living folk traditions of Bangladesh’s tea communities.
The sound is further enriched by the resonant beats of dhols from Sreemangal, giving the track a distinct connection to the region and its cultural heritage. Through the collaboration, “Mulluk” gives musical expression to a community whose stories and traditions have been passed down through generations.
The release also reflects Coke Studio Bangla’s ongoing effort to uncover lesser-known stories within Bangladesh’s musical heritage and reinterpret them for contemporary audience. While rooted in a specific community’s history, “Mulluk” explores a universal longing--the desire for a place to belong and call home.
More than a musical retelling of history, the song celebrates the identity, resilience and hopes of Bangladesh’s tea-artisan community, while dedicating its message to those who continue to work towards a better tomorrow and dream of a homeland they can truly call home.
Released on Thursday “Mulluk” is now available on digital streaming platforms and the official Coke Studio Bangla channels.