New single from the lovely Lisette Vares. You can check out this song on her MySpace page, along with a few others from her forthcoming album: http://www.myspace.com/lizzvega.
Monday, March 30, 2009
Lisette Vares - What A Night
New single from the lovely Lisette Vares. You can check out this song on her MySpace page, along with a few others from her forthcoming album: http://www.myspace.com/lizzvega.
Interview with Bhawaiya artist Shafiul Alam Raza
Regional folk songs have a pride of place in Bangladesh. However, though the genre is widely appreciated, such songs do not share the magnitude of popularity as other genres.
Take the case of ‘Bhawaiya,’ a genre indigenous to north Bengal, mostly popularised by the folk maestro Abbasuddin. This genre is certainly not getting its rightful due today.
This is exactly the point where artiste Shafiul Alam Raza steps in. A regular artiste of Bangladesh Betar (radio) and Bangladesh Television, Raza is fast becoming a familiar name to ‘Bhawaiya’ enthusiasts in the country. Recently he had his second solo performance at Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy (BSA).
In his words, “Most people are under the impression that songs like “Oki gariyal bhai,” “Baukumtha batash jemon” and a few others define the repertoire of the ‘Bhawaiya’ genre. However, in the rural areas of north Bengal, so many songs that the local artistes and Bauls sing are yet to receive exposure. Personally, I feel an inclination to bring these numbers before city audiences.”
And Raza practices what he preaches. Along with popular music, he always tries to present new, lesser-known ‘Bhawaiya’ songs. At the major cultural events in the city, such as ‘Pahela Baishakh,’ ‘Bashonto Utshab,’ ‘Ekushey February’ and ‘Bijoy Dibosh,’ Raja performs ‘Bhawaiya’ songs exclusively written for the occasion.
Born in Chilmari of Kurigram district, known as the hub of the genre, Raza was understandably fascinated by these songs. Since childhood, he was an avid listener of Rangpur Betar; he sought to learn his favourite songs and as it happened most of these were ‘Bhawaiya.’
“I don’t clearly know the reason for my interest. Maybe having grown up in that area, I was irresistibly drawn to ‘Bhawaiya’ songs,” said the artiste.
Though he didn’t receive formal education in music, this didn’t prevent him from receiving several prizes at competitions in his school. As it happened, at an Upazilla competition where he bagged the first prize, he met his music guru, Nurul Islam Zahid. A singer, composer and music teacher, Zahid has written over 3,000 ‘Bhawaiya’ songs. Zahid was a major source of inspiration for the young Raza, though the latter could not receive practical training from Zahid at that time. Years later, Raza managed to contact the artiste once more; since then, he has been among Zahid’s talented disciples.
Take the case of ‘Bhawaiya,’ a genre indigenous to north Bengal, mostly popularised by the folk maestro Abbasuddin. This genre is certainly not getting its rightful due today.
This is exactly the point where artiste Shafiul Alam Raza steps in. A regular artiste of Bangladesh Betar (radio) and Bangladesh Television, Raza is fast becoming a familiar name to ‘Bhawaiya’ enthusiasts in the country. Recently he had his second solo performance at Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy (BSA).
In his words, “Most people are under the impression that songs like “Oki gariyal bhai,” “Baukumtha batash jemon” and a few others define the repertoire of the ‘Bhawaiya’ genre. However, in the rural areas of north Bengal, so many songs that the local artistes and Bauls sing are yet to receive exposure. Personally, I feel an inclination to bring these numbers before city audiences.”
And Raza practices what he preaches. Along with popular music, he always tries to present new, lesser-known ‘Bhawaiya’ songs. At the major cultural events in the city, such as ‘Pahela Baishakh,’ ‘Bashonto Utshab,’ ‘Ekushey February’ and ‘Bijoy Dibosh,’ Raja performs ‘Bhawaiya’ songs exclusively written for the occasion.
Born in Chilmari of Kurigram district, known as the hub of the genre, Raza was understandably fascinated by these songs. Since childhood, he was an avid listener of Rangpur Betar; he sought to learn his favourite songs and as it happened most of these were ‘Bhawaiya.’
“I don’t clearly know the reason for my interest. Maybe having grown up in that area, I was irresistibly drawn to ‘Bhawaiya’ songs,” said the artiste.
Though he didn’t receive formal education in music, this didn’t prevent him from receiving several prizes at competitions in his school. As it happened, at an Upazilla competition where he bagged the first prize, he met his music guru, Nurul Islam Zahid. A singer, composer and music teacher, Zahid has written over 3,000 ‘Bhawaiya’ songs. Zahid was a major source of inspiration for the young Raza, though the latter could not receive practical training from Zahid at that time. Years later, Raza managed to contact the artiste once more; since then, he has been among Zahid’s talented disciples.
Wednesday, March 25, 2009
Interview with Balam
The music sensation Balam, who continues to create new tunes and medley for music lovers, speaks of his passion, his work that began a decade ago and plans for creating more music in an interview with Faizul Khan Tanim.
His signature style of combining eastern and western fusion incorporated with humming tunes has indeed won hearts and opened a new dimension to upcoming artists across the country. On the spring afternoon that I met this versatile and talented artist, Balam, in his studio, he was busy working on a new composition— playing with organ, piano and string tones.
Needless to say, like always, the sound that he was creating before my eyes was fresh, elusive and mystic. With passage of time, we can safely say that Balam is one of those artists who has brought unique musical perspective to the electro pop genre and captured attention of critics and fans.
Although his sudden shift from rock to pop may have disappointed his core fans, it has nonetheless made him reach a larger audience. It actually increased his fans and his recordings sound better and have sold more than most people would imagine. His role in the musical industry has been nothing less than significant. The producer and the singer has appeared in countless concerts and CDs and gained immense popularity. But his popularity has in no way diminished his versatility and rare talent.
Back in the old days..
It is hard to forget the immortal Warfaze song Mone pore jai amar koishor- this brilliant composition was actually done by Balam, who was then a class eight student. At that age, Balam had learnt the rare art of experimenting through strings and composing new sounds and Mone Pore was just the beginning for him.
‘Babna bhai is my cousin and that is how I got myself introduced to Warfaze and amongst a lot of my tunes, the band picked up Koishor’s composition and added it as a song in their album. And I must say, that was a huge morale boost for a kid like me,’ says Balam, with a hint of nostalgia.
Interestingly, a lot of Balam’s music enthusiasts don’t know that Balam was in a band where he worked with now musical icon Habib, who was the keyboardist of the group in the mid 90’s.
‘My first band was Renegades which was formed after my SSC examination in 1995. We used to compose pop/rock mellow songs and the band actually formed just from random musical jamming. All the members used to live in the same area and those of us who shared a common taste, actually went on for musical addas. It wasn’t all that serious even,’ he remembers fondly.
‘However, like many others, we also got our first break when we became the second band in the first Cocacola Band Music Awards in 1997. That was the beginning of our inspiration and especially, mine personally. We made an album in the end of 1995 called Phiriye Dao, which was released from a record label called Enteck. And very sadly, that album was recently re-released as it is, just the cover picture changed by the record label who bought Enteck, says Balam, while answering to a question about a re-made version of the album by Balam and Habib. ‘We did not make any re-make or remixed any songs. If there is such a rumour in the market, it is hundred percent false and we are thinking of taking legal actions,’ added Balam.
By the end of 1998, Balam joined the celebrated band, Warfaze. ‘That was like a whole new life again and I enjoyed being a part of that crew,’ he says laughing.
And today….
‘The moment I decided to quit bands and go solo, my feelings and work became more synonymous with the terms ‘freedom’ and ‘satisfaction’. Honestly, after my debut album Premshikari, which was a mixed compilation, my latest work – the self-titled album- became huge and that was so unexpected. I did not expect any results before six months but the appreciation I received, which was in less than three months, is amazing! My worst fear is that, a standard is now set and both music enthusiasts and critics will be eagerly waiting to review my next album strongly,’ adds Balam.
His first solo album was not very appreciated by his rock fans, however he believes that, the second compilation got a universal character. ‘It is my personal belief that a musician should not stay rooted to a single genre and should constantly experiment to a level which is acceptable,’ said Balam.
He composed jingles for countless television commercials and became very successful. ‘I did the Banglalink Din Bodol series, Navana Real Estate – which was my first work. Now I have plenty of offers, but the first experience of creating music for a very short duration was more challenging than fulfilling. But now it seems I’m doing well and best of all…enjoying,’ adds Balam with a smirk.
Tomorrow
Balam is coming out with his new album, the third one which will feature his sister Julie, who already is a popular artist collaborating with Habib in Moyna Go. The album will be out in Pahela Baishakh – on the occasion of the first day of the Bangla calendar.
‘My latest songs will have some structural change, musically different which will suit Julie’s style of singing. And I will definitely give preference to creating ‘soothing music’…music which will give my fans audible pleasure and for a long time.’
While wrapping up the interview, this creative musician speaks of his belief- living in the moment. ‘I will definitely continue doing music and will compose tracks — what ever comes to my mind in an impulsive manner. That would capture the very essence of the raw appeal I like. The album is coming out from Sangeeta record label and I hope everyone will enjoy listening to it.’
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Festivals
Festivals have always played a significant role in the life of the people of Bangladesh. Those are parts and parcels of Bangalee culture and tradition. Brief account of the major and regular festivals are given below.
Pahela Baishakh
The advent of Bengali New Year is gaily observed throughout the country. The Day (mid-April) is a public holiday. Most colorful daylong gatherings along with arrangement of cultural program and traditional Panta at Ramna Park, Dhaka is a special feature of Pahela Baishakh. Tournaments, boat races etc. are held in cities and villages amidst great jubilation. Many fairs are held in Dhaka and other towns and villages.
Pahela Baishakh
The advent of Bengali New Year is gaily observed throughout the country. The Day (mid-April) is a public holiday. Most colorful daylong gatherings along with arrangement of cultural program and traditional Panta at Ramna Park, Dhaka is a special feature of Pahela Baishakh. Tournaments, boat races etc. are held in cities and villages amidst great jubilation. Many fairs are held in Dhaka and other towns and villages.
Independence Day
March 26 is the day of Independence of Bangladesh. It is the biggest state festival. This day is most befittingly observed and the capital wears a festive look. It is a public holiday. The citizens of Dhaka wake up early in the morning with the booming of guns heralding the day. Citizens including government leaders and sociopolitical organizations and freedom fighters place floral wreaths at the National Martyrs Monument at Savar. Bangla Academy, Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy and other socio-cultural organizations hold cultural functions. At night the main public buildings are tastefully illuminated to give the capital city a dazzling look. Similar functions are arranged in other parts of the country.
21st Feb, the National Mourning Day and World Mother Language Day
21 February is observed throughout the country to pay respect and homage to the sacred souls of the martyrs' of Language Movement of 1952. Blood was shed on this day at the Central Shahid Minar (near Dhaka Medical College Hospital) area to establish Bangla as a state language of the then Pakistan. All subsequent movements including struggle for independence owe their origin to the historic language movement. The Shahid Minar (martyrs monument) is the symbol of sacrifice for Bangla, the mother tongue. The day is closed holiday. Mourning procedure begin in Dhaka at midnight with the song Amar vaier raktay rangano ekushay February (21st February, the day stained with my brothers' blood). Nationals pay homage to the martyrs by placing flora wreaths at the Shahid Minar. Very recently the day has been declared World Mother Language Day by UNESCO.
Eid-e-Miladunnabi
Eid-e-Miladunnabi is the birth and death day of Prophet Muhammad (s). He was born and died the same day on 12th Rabiul Awal (Lunar Month). The day is national holiday, national flag is flown atop public and private houses and special food is served in orphanages, hospitals and jails. At night important public buildings are illuminated and milad mahfils are held.
Eid-ul-Fitr
The biggest Muslim festival observed throughout the world. This is held on the day following the Ramadan or the month of fasting. In Dhaka big congregations are held at the National Eidgah and many mosques.
Eid-ul-Azha
Second biggest festival of the Muslims. It is held marking the Hajj in Mecca on the 10th Zilhaj, the lunar month. Eid congregations are held throughout the country. Animals are sacrificed in reminiscence of Hazrat Ibrahim's (AM) preparedness for the supreme sacrifice of his beloved son to Allah. It is a public holiday.
Muharram
Muharram procession is a ceremonial mournful procession of Muslim community. A large procession is brought out from the Hussaini Dalan Imambara on 10th Muharram in memory of the tragic martyrdom of Imam Hussain (RA) on this day at Karbala in Iraq. Same observations are made elsewhere in the country.
Durga Puja
Durga Puja, the biggest festival of the Hindu community continues for ten days, the last three days being culmination with the idol immersed in rivers. In Dhaka the big celebrations are held at Dhakeswari Temple, where a fair is also held and at the Ram Krishna Mission.
Christmas
Christmas, popularly called "Bara Din (Big Day)", is celebrated with pomp in Dhaka and elsewhere in the country. Several day-long large gatherings are held at St. Mary's Cathedral at Ramna, Portuguese Church at Tejgaon, Church of Bangladesh (Protestant) on Johnson Road and Bangladesh Baptist Sangha at Sadarghat Dhaka. Functions include illumination of churches, decorating Christmas tree and other Christian festivities.
Rabindra & Nazrul Jayanti
Birth anniversary of the noble laureate Rabindranath Tagore on 25th Baishakh (May) and that of the National Poet Kazi Nazrul Islam on 11th Jaystha (May) are observed throughout the country. Their death anniversaries are also marked in the same way. Big gatherings and song sessions organized by socio-cultural organizations are salient features of the observance of the days.
Tagore is the writer of our national anthem while National Poet Kazi Nazrul Islam is famous as Rebel Poet.
Tagore is the writer of our national anthem while National Poet Kazi Nazrul Islam is famous as Rebel Poet.
2011 Cricket World Cup Opening Ceremony in Bangladesh
Cricket is a great sport and the Cricket World Cup is the highlight of every cricket lover’s year. This time the event, which is held every four years, will be even more memorable for cricket lovers living in Bangladesh.
On February 18, 2009, Haroon Lorgat, the Chief Executive of the International Cricket Council, announced that the opening ceremony of the 2011 Cricket World Cup will be held in Bangladesh. The event will take place almost exactly two years from now on February 19, 2011, and proceedings will coincide with the opening game which will also take place in Bangladesh on the same day. That is exciting news for both cricket lovers in Bangladesh and the people of the country in general as the move will no doubt generate a lot of tourism and cast a spotlight on the country, hopefully helping to further improve its image and economy.
Haroon Lorgat also said that the number of matches to be played at the fifteen different selected venues had been discussed. It is obvious that the event should be used to bolster local tourism efforts and every endeavor must be made to ensure that it is a massive success. If you would like to combine sport with leisure, you’ll be happy to know that the World Cup will be making its way to either Bangabandhu National Stadium in Dhaka, Narayanganj Osmani Stadium in Fatullah or the Sher-e-Bangla Cricket Stadium in Dhaka. The final decision as to which stadium will be used for the event is yet to be made.
No doubt, this means that Bandladesh will experience a lot of tourist-related development as city officials try to ensure that it is completely ready to receive this prestigious event and the many tourists that travel with it. Though it is still some time before the 2011 Cricket World Cup takes place, fans would definitely do well to book well in advance to avoid disappointment. Visitors from other countries would also do well to take advantage of their trip and explore the country between matches so that they can learn a little bit more about the rich beauty that is to be found in Bangladesh.
A Brief History of Cricket in Bangladesh
The Cricket-Culture is not at all a new phenomenon in Bangladesh. As elsewhere in the subcontinent, the game itself was first introduced to the Ganges- Brahmaputra delta region by the British rulers nearly two centuries ago. For the better part of the British rule, cricket remained a recreational game for the aristocrats, inaccessible to the common people because of colonial class distinctions and the complicated nature of the game which the locals did not make out so easily.
Following the bloody freedom struggle which ended in Bangladesh gaining independence in 1971, cricket has continued to grow. It was slow to start, other things having priority at the beginning. Early in 1975 the Dhaka (then "Dacca") stadium was in disrepair, the square having sunk several inches and the the Press Club shell-torn.
The M.C.C. tour in 1976/77 helped to build the enthusiasm, over 40,000 people attending the representative match at Dhaka. In 1977 Bangladesh became an Associate member of the I.C.C. Two further M.C.C. teams toured in 1978/79 and 1980/81.
The standard of cricket quickly rose, and soon Bangladesh was the top ICC associate country in the region, winning all ACC tournaments. This gave them the opportunity to play in the Asia Cup, against teams like India, Pakistan and Sri Lanka.
The Third Asia Cup took place in Bangladesh in 1988 with India, Pakistan and Sri Lanka participating as well as the host country. In 1989/90 Bangladesh played hosts to the First Under-19 Asia Cup.
In 1997, Bangladesh won the ICC Trophy in Malaysia, qualifying for its first ever world cup appearance. Soon after, Bangladesh, along with Kenya were granted full ODI status by the ICC. Bangladesh posted it's first ODI win against Kenya in India in 1998.
In October of 1998, Bangladesh hosted (although they did not participate) the first ever "Mini World Cup", a knock-out basis ODI tournament featuring all the test playing nations. In 1999, in their maiden appearance at the World Cup in England, Bangladesh defeated fellow ICC associate Scotland, and then pulled off the upset of the tournament against favorites Pakistan. As a reward of bright performance in ICC and World Cup, Bangladesh was given the status of the 10th test playing nation on the 26th June, 2000.
As the famous ex-cricketer Mr.Ali Bacher of South Africa noted during his visit to Dhaka, 'the game of cricket has great prospects in a country like Bangladesh where there is cricket on the streets, cricket in the schools, in the villages, a competitive league and Friday cricket- drawing crowds of spectators who love the game in all it's forms.' The game having shed it's aristocratic restrictions prospers at the very grass-roots of Bangladeshi society.
National Parks in Bangladesh
Protected areas in Bangladesh cover some 2% of the country's total area or 243 677 ha. There are eight National Parks in Bangladesh as well as seven Wildlife sanctuaries, five conservation sites and one game reserve. Bangladesh's National Parks can be defined as relatively large areas of natural beauty where the flora and fauna are protected and preserved for the public to enjoy and gain education. Wildlife sanctuaries are designated areas where wildlife and natural resources are protected and for the provision of undisturbed breeding. A game reserve is defined by the government as a place that protects wildlife as well as serves to increase the numbers of various species.
Bhawal National Park in Gazipur was established in 1982 to preserve important habitats and create opportunities for recreation, education and research. The prominent form of flora is coppice sal forest. Himchari National Park was founded in 1980 at Cox's Bazar. Semi-evergreen as well as deciduous forest dominate the area. Ramsagar National Park, developed in Dinajpur in 1974 encompasses man-made forest of ornamental and fruit trees.
Below is a list of Bangladesh's National Parks, wildlife sanctuaries, game reserve and other conservation areas.
Bhawal National Park – Gazipur
Himchari National Park – Cox' Bazar
Kaptai National Park – Chittagong Hill Tracts
Lawachara National Park – Moulavibazar
Medha Kassapia National Park – Cox's Bazar
Modhupur National Park – Tangail/Mymensingh
Nijhum Dweep National Park –Noakhali
Ramsagar National Park – Dinajpur
Satchari National Park – Hobigonj
Char Kukri-Mukri
Char Kukri-Mukri
Wildlife Sanctuary – Bhola
Chunati Wildlife Sanctuary – Chittagong
Pablakhali Wildlife Sanctuary – Chittagong
Hill TractsRema-Kelenga
Wildlife Sanctuary – Hobigonj
Sundarban (East) Wildlife Sanctuary – BagerhatSundarban (West)
Wildlife Sanctuary – Satkhira
Sundarban (South) Wildlife Sanctuary – Khulna
Teknaf Game Reserve – Cox's Bazar
Baldha Garden - Dhaka
Teknaf Game Reserve – Cox's Bazar
Baldha Garden - Dhaka
Dulahazara Safari Parks – Cox's Bazar
Madhabkunda Eco-Park – Moulavibazar
National Botanical Garden – Dhaka
Sitakunda Botanical Garden and Eco-park - Chittagong
Discover the city of Dhaka in Bangladesh
With skyscrapers towering above the surrounding hills and houses, Dhaka is the capital and largest city of Bangladesh. Geographically speaking, it is located in the center of the country and is served by the port of Narayanganj. It is a city that is rich in history and culture and it is known internationally as 'the City of Mosques and Muslin'. No trip to Bangladesh is complete without first visiting Dhaka.
Dhaka is located in a monsoon climate zone, which means it receives plenty of rainfall every year between May and September during monsoon season. These natural conditions have made it perfect for growing rice and jute, which is why it is one of the worlds leading rice and jute growing regions. The city has a strong Muslim influence that is reflected in the roughly seven hundred mosques and historical buildings that give the city its character. Like many cities, Dhaka can be divided into an old and new city. The new portion of the city is characterized by residential and industrial communities while the old portion makes for better sight seeing.
No one really knows when Dhaka was founded. According to recorded history it was founded in 1608 AD, but some seem to think the city was around even before that. The city has always enjoyed some fame as a capital city in various capacities and it suffered some heavy damage during the Bangladesh War of Independence in 1971. Today the damage is almost invisible and instead of seeing chaos and rubble, you are more like to focus on beautiful old and new architecture and a major waterfront filled with a variety of different boats of all shapes and colors. The city is very busy and always has something to offer. You will also find that the people are incredibly friendly and welcoming. Dhaka is a great place to start your visit to this amazing country.
Discover the wonderful culture of Bangladesh and it's people
Bangladesh has a rich, diverse culture. Its deeply rooted heritage is thoroughly reflected in its architecture, dance, literature, music, painting and clothing. The three primary religions of Bangladesh (Hinduism, Buddhism and Islam) have had a great influence on its culture and history.Bangalees have a rich fictional legacy, with the first available form of literature being over a thousand years old. Bengali literature developed considerably during the medieval period with the rise of popular poets such as Chandi Das, Daulat Kazi an Alaol.
The traditional music of Bangladesh is very much the same as that of the Indian sub-continent. The music in Bangladesh can be divided into three main categories: classical, modern and folk. Both vocal and instrumental classical music is enjoyed in Bangladesh. Ustad Ayet Ali Khan and Ustad Alauddin are two famous classical instrumental players that are internationally known. Modern music is becoming more popular and is practiced widely. Contemporary, pop songs and bands are also enjoying more widespread fame, but are mainly popular in the regions of Dhaka City.
Tribal dances are very popular among the Bangalees. The countryside girls are in the habit of dancing to popular folk music. Their dances require no regulations as such, just a small amount of courage and a big amount of rhythm. Popular songs like Shari and Jari are presented with the accompanying dance of both male and female performers.
Drama and theatre is an old tradition that is very popular in Bangladesh. More than a dozen theater groups in Dhaka City have been regularly staging locally written plays for hundreds of years. Many have also started adopted some plays from European writers. Baily Road in Dhaka is known as "Natak Para" and this is one location where drama shows are regularly held. Many shows are also held at the Dhaka University.
Another important aspect of the culture of Bangladesh is clothing. Bangladeshi woman usually wear Saris, made of the world famous and expensive, finely embroidered quilted patchwork cloth produced by the village woman. Woman will traditionally wear their hair in a twisted bun, which is called the "Beni style". Hindus will traditionally wear Dhuty for religious purposes. These days most men of Bangladesh wear shirts and pants.
The traditional music of Bangladesh is very much the same as that of the Indian sub-continent. The music in Bangladesh can be divided into three main categories: classical, modern and folk. Both vocal and instrumental classical music is enjoyed in Bangladesh. Ustad Ayet Ali Khan and Ustad Alauddin are two famous classical instrumental players that are internationally known. Modern music is becoming more popular and is practiced widely. Contemporary, pop songs and bands are also enjoying more widespread fame, but are mainly popular in the regions of Dhaka City.
Tribal dances are very popular among the Bangalees. The countryside girls are in the habit of dancing to popular folk music. Their dances require no regulations as such, just a small amount of courage and a big amount of rhythm. Popular songs like Shari and Jari are presented with the accompanying dance of both male and female performers.
Drama and theatre is an old tradition that is very popular in Bangladesh. More than a dozen theater groups in Dhaka City have been regularly staging locally written plays for hundreds of years. Many have also started adopted some plays from European writers. Baily Road in Dhaka is known as "Natak Para" and this is one location where drama shows are regularly held. Many shows are also held at the Dhaka University.
Another important aspect of the culture of Bangladesh is clothing. Bangladeshi woman usually wear Saris, made of the world famous and expensive, finely embroidered quilted patchwork cloth produced by the village woman. Woman will traditionally wear their hair in a twisted bun, which is called the "Beni style". Hindus will traditionally wear Dhuty for religious purposes. These days most men of Bangladesh wear shirts and pants.
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