No honour excites me anymore, but this is meaningful: Syed Abdul Hadi

Country’s legendary singer and celebrated playback artiste, Syed Abdul Hadi, will be honoured with a special recognition on 12 June at the main auditorium of Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy in the capital. 

The programme, titled “Kaaljoyi Kontho: Sroddha o Bhalobasai Syed Abdul Hadi”, is being organised by the Shilpakala Academy under the initiative of Cultural Affairs Ministry. The event marks the second such recognition programme dedicated to a distinguished artiste. Previously, a similar programme was held in September last year in honour of renowned singer Sabina Yasmin.  

Confirming the matter, the veteran singer expressed his gratitude for the recognition. Reflecting on his long and illustrious musical journey, he said that he has already received immense love and respect from audience, fans and admirers across generations.

“In my long musical career, I have received endless love from listeners, fans and viewers. At this stage of my life, no achievement or honour particularly surprises or excites me anymore. However, it is certainly encouraging and meaningful that the state has taken such an initiative to honour me. I hope the event will be enjoyable and memorable for everyone involved,” he said.

He also extended his best wishes to the performers who will take part in the programme and thanked the Cultural Affairs Ministry and the Shilpakala Academy for arranging the event.

Although Syed Abdul Hadi himself will not perform at the programme, several artistes, including Rashed, Atik, Apu Aman, Konal, Ananya and Sushmita, will render some of his timeless songs. The performances are expected to highlight the depth and diversity of his musical legacy that has inspired generations of music lovers.

A documentary based on the life and career of the noted singer will also be screened during the event. The production work for the documentary was completed recently at his residence in in the capital’s Dhanmondi area.

Born on 1 July, Syed Abdul Hadi has received the Bangladesh National Film Award for Best Male Playback Singer five times for his performances in the films “Golapi Ekhon Train e” (1979), “Sundori” (1979), “Koshai” (1980), “Goriber Bou” (1990) and “Khoma” (1992). He was also awarded the prestigious Ekushey Padak in 2000.

Among his most popular songs are “Achen Amar Muktar Achen Amar Barrister”, “Ami Tomari Prem o Bhikhari”, “Chokher Nozor Amni Koira”, “Jeona Saathi”, “Jonmo Theke Jolchi Mago”, “Surjodoye Tumi”, “Ke Jaane Kotodure Sukher Tikkana” and “Tel Gele Furaiya”, which continue to resonate with audience across the country.