For the first time in history, a Bangladeshi band is set to receive the prestigious Ekushey Padak, the nation’s second-highest civilian award. The pioneering Bangladeshi heavy metal and hard rock band Warfaze has been selected for this esteemed recognition in 2026, marking a significant milestone not only for the band but also for the country’s rock and heavy metal music scene.
Warfaze’s band leader and drummer, Sheikh Monirul Alam Tipu, described the news as “truly unbelievable” in an immediate reaction to The Daily Star. “I had no idea this was coming. This is the state’s recognition, a milestone for Bangladeshi band music,” Tipu said.
He added, “This award belongs to everyone—past and present members of Warfaze, our loyal fans, those who have worked behind the scenes, and the journalists who have written about our music. We want to share this joy with all of them.”
Historically, Waves is recognised as Bangladesh’s first heavy metal band. However, the genre gained real momentum in the mid-1980s, led by four key bands: Warfaze, Rockstrata, In Dhaka, and Aces. Among these, Warfaze remains the only band consistently performing concerts both domestically and internationally. The band has not only pioneered Bengali heavy metal but has also played a central role in popularising it across the Indian subcontinent. Their music has inspired numerous Bengali-speaking heavy metal bands in Bangladesh, Kolkata, and other parts of the world.
Warfaze was formed in 1984 by Kamal, Mir, Helal, Naimul, and Bappi. The classic lineup, which remains widely celebrated today, includes Kamal, Tipu, Sanjoy, Babna, and Russel. The band’s first album, released in 1991, was an instant hit and cemented their place in Bangladeshi music. Subsequent albums include Obak Bhalobasha, Jibon Dhara, Osamajik, Alo, Maharaj, Pothchola, and Sotyo.
| Album Name | Year Released | Significance |
|---|---|---|
| Obak Bhalobasha | 1991 | Warfaze’s breakthrough debut |
| Jibon Dhara | 1993 | Introduced new heavy metal elements |
| Osamajik | 1995 | Known for socially conscious lyrics |
| Alo | 1997 | Showcased melodic heavy metal style |
| Maharaj | 2000 | Reinforced the band’s musical dominance |
| Pothchola | 2003 | Widely popular among fans |
| Sotyo | 2006 | Recognised as a classic contribution |
Over the years, Warfaze has collaborated with numerous renowned musicians, including Reshad, Fuad Ibne Rabbi, Romel Ali, Balam, Bezbaba Sumon, Iqbal Asif Jewel, Sajjad, Mizan, Bijoy, and Oni.
The current lineup of Warfaze comprises Kamal, Tipu, Shams, Roger, Palash, Samir, and Soumen, who continue to perform and keep the legacy alive. Through decades of innovation and dedication, Warfaze remains a trailblazer in Bengali heavy metal, inspiring new generations of musicians while bringing Bangladeshi music to audiences worldwide.
The Ekushey Padak not only honours the band’s achievements but also highlights the evolution and cultural impact of heavy metal in Bangladesh, acknowledging Warfaze as a national musical treasure.