In a heartfelt tribute to the late legendary Lalon folk singer Fareeda Parveen, her hand-founded music academy, ‘Achin Pakhi Music Academy’, is organising a special commemoration on the occasion of what would have been her birthday. The event is scheduled to take place tomorrow, Tuesday, 13 January at 4:00 pm, at the main auditorium of the Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy’s National Theatre Hall.
Originally, the celebration was planned for 31 December, marking the 71st birthday of the iconic singer. However, following the passing of former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia and the ensuing period of national mourning, the event was postponed. A new date was subsequently confirmed to honour Fareeda Parveen’s enduring legacy.
Her husband and acclaimed flautist, Gazi Abdul Hakim, emphasised that the ceremony is intended as a mark of respect for the late singer. Fareeda Akhter, Advisor for Fisheries and Livestock, will attend as the Chief Guest, while Mahbuba Farzana, Secretary of Information and Broadcasting, and Rezauddin Stalin, Director General of Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy, will be present as Special Guests. The event will be inaugurated by Dr. Mohammad Abdul Majid, Chairman of the Social Development Foundation, with Gazi Abdul Hakim presiding over the ceremony.
Fareeda Parveen’s illustrious journey began in Singra, Natore, where she was born on 31 December 1954. Her professional music career commenced at the tender age of 14, and in 1968, she was enlisted as a singer on Rajshahi Radio, performing Nazrul Geeti. She later developed her own repertoire of patriotic songs and Lalon folk music, having received classical Lalon training from Sadhak Mokshed Ali Shah.
Her contributions to music earned her several prestigious accolades:
| Year | Award | Recognition |
|---|---|---|
| 1987 | Ekushey Padak | National recognition for music excellence |
| 1993 | Bangladesh National Film Award | Best Playback Singer |
| 2008 | Fukuoka Asian Culture Prize, Japan | International acclaim |
Fareeda Parveen’s songs and spiritual legacy continue to resonate across generations. Through this commemoration, the music community and admirers will once again celebrate her extraordinary talent and unwavering dedication, ensuring her influence on Bangladeshi folk music endures.
The event is not only a tribute to a legendary artist but also an opportunity for emerging musicians to engage with the rich tradition of Lalon music, preserving and passing on her artistic heritage to future generations.