Folk music event ‘Shekorer Gaan’ held in Gopalganj

A folk music event 'Shekorer Gaan' was held on the evening of 1 October at the Sheikh Moni Memorial Auditorium in Gopalganj.

Organised by the District Administration with the support of the District Shilpakala Academy and sponsored by the Ministry of Cultural Affairs, the event celebrated the rich tradition of baul and folk music, reads a press release.

The event was inaugurated by the Chief Guest, District Commissioner Muhammad Kamruzzaman. The opening ceremony was presided over by Additional District Commissioner (General) Mr Golam Kabir.

The evening began with Seema Baul's enchanting performance of Lalon's song 'Boro Shonkote Poria Doyal', setting the stage for the night. A series of popular songs composed by renowned Bauls such as Hasan Raja, Radharaman, Shah Abdul Karim, Bijoy Sarkar, and Abdur Rahman Boyati were performed. In between, the artists also presented other folk songs, which kept the audience engaged until 10 PM. The attendees thoroughly enjoyed the pure joy and entertainment the event offered.

In his inaugural speech, District Commissioner Muhammad Kamruzzaman said, "Baul and folk music are intrinsically linked with Bangladesh's culture. The presence of Baul music is evident in every corner of the country, and Gopalganj is no exception. We aim to build a culturally harmonious and unified Gopalganj, and I seek everyone's support in this endeavour."

District Cultural Officer Farhan Kabir Shifat said, "Promoting the traditional Baul songs of rural Bangladesh can inspire the new generation with inclusive values and help keep them away from the dangers of extremism, terrorism, and drugs."

Poet Rabindra Nath Adhikari commented, "Music is a powerful medium for practising true culture, and folk music is a distinct form within it. It reflects the philosophy and thoughts of the rural heart. This event captured that essence beautifully, and I thoroughly enjoyed it."

Poet Mintu Haque added, "Culture is a flowing stream, transcending life, nature, religion, work, and spirituality. The event titled 'Shekorer Gaan' touched upon all these themes, and I was absorbed in its splendour."

Audience member Pavel Rahman remarked, "The event, 'Shekorer Gaan', featured Baul and folk music, presenting a form of pure, healthy culture. It vividly portrayed the thousand-year-old traditions of Bengali heritage. We enjoyed it thoroughly. I urge more of such events to keep our culture alive."