After nearly a decade away from the spotlight, Kusum Sikdar, a beloved figure in 1990s Bangladeshi music, has returned with a remarkable blend of tradition and innovation. Her latest release, Hera Hote Hele Dule, written and composed by the legendary Kazi Nazrul Islam, marks her first musical offering since 2017’s Nesha. The song heralds a fresh chapter in her artistic journey, reaffirming her deep connection with Nazrul Sangeet.
Kusum commented on her return, saying, “Nazrul Sangeet has always been central to my musical life. Coming back with this piece is incredibly special. The video production utilised AI technology, which allowed us to combine creativity with modern tools, keeping the work relevant for today’s audience.”
The music video, produced under the banner of Impress Telefilm, was directed by Faridur Reza Sagar with conceptual planning by Shaikh Siraj. It premiered on Channel i before becoming available on the channel’s digital platforms, broadening access to both traditional and younger audiences.
Trained at the Nazrul Academy in both Nazrul Sangeet and classical music, Kusum has been able to perform Naat-e-Rasul songs with a refined technique, allowing her to infuse each performance with authenticity and emotional depth.
Simultaneously, Kusum has completed her acting debut in the web series Pap Kahini 2, directed by Shahriar Nazim Joy. Building on the narrative of last year’s Pap Kahini, the series explores themes of love, betrayal, and revenge, promising audiences an engaging and layered storyline.
Reflecting on her first experience in OTT media, she said, “The platform matters less than the character. My focus is always on delivering the best performance. Working with Joy, someone I’ve known for years, made the shooting process seamless. I choose projects selectively, ensuring that each role is distinctive.”
She revealed that dubbing is scheduled to begin soon, with a potential release on the iScreen platform during Ramadan Eid. While remaining discreet about plot details, Kusum expressed hope that viewers will find the series both fresh and high-quality.
Kusum Sikdar: Recent Milestones
| Year | Activity | Significance |
|---|---|---|
| 2017 | Song Nesha | Last release before extended break |
| 2024 | Film Sharater Joba | Acting return after six years |
| 2026 | Song Hera Hote Hele Dule | First song in nine years, focus on Nazrul Sangeet |
| 2026 | Web Series Pap Kahini 2 | First web series; possible Ramadan Eid release |
Kusum Sikdar’s dual return to music and acting demonstrates a successful integration of classical artistry with contemporary digital storytelling, reinforcing her enduring influence in Bangladesh’s cultural scene.
