Congratulations Warm Birthday Wishes to Bangladesh’s Living Musical Legend, Ferdousi Rahman

On the birthday of Ferdousi Rahman, one of Bangladesh’s most celebrated musical icons and a living legend whose extraordinary voice has captivated generations of listeners, I extend my heartfelt congratulations, warmest wishes, and deepest respect.

For nearly seven decades, she has enriched the world of Bengali music with her melodious voice, flawless performances, and remarkable artistic excellence. Times have changed and generations have passed, yet the timeless appeal of her songs has never faded. Even today, her music continues to touch hearts with the same emotion, grace, and affection that have defined her illustrious career.

Born into the inspiring legacy of legendary Bengali folk singer Abbas Uddin Ahmed, Ferdousi Rahman developed a passion for music from an early age. Although she performed as a child artist on various occasions, her formal musical journey began in 1955 when she sang in an adult programme on Radio Pakistan.

In 1957, His Master’s Voice (HMV) released her first record, marking an important milestone in her career. Two years later, in 1959, she made her playback debut in the film Ei Desh Tomar Amar, directed by Ehtesham. She continued to win audiences’ admiration with her songs in the 1960 film Asiya.

One of the most memorable chapters of her career came on 25 December 1964, when the newly established East Pakistan Television—now Bangladesh Television (BTV)—began its official broadcast with her song. It remains a landmark moment in the country’s broadcasting history.

Her contribution extends far beyond her own performances. Ferdousi Rahman has played an invaluable role in nurturing future generations of musicians. Her television programme Eso Gaan Shikhi (“Come, Let’s Learn Music”) was broadcast on Bangladesh Television for nearly 44 years, making it one of the country’s longest-running and most beloved children’s music education programmes. For countless aspiring singers, it served as their first introduction to the world of music.

Her outstanding contribution to music has been recognised with numerous prestigious honours, including the Lahore Film Journalists Award (1963), the President’s Pride of Performance Award (1965), the Ekushey Padak (1977), and Bangladesh’s highest civilian honour, the Independence Award (1995), alongside many other national and international accolades.

Born on this day in 1941 in Cooch Behar, Ferdousi Rahman is far more than an accomplished singer. She is a shining symbol of Bangladesh’s rich musical heritage and a living chapter of the nation’s cultural history.

On this special occasion, I wish the respected Ferdousi Rahman good health, longevity, and a life filled with peace and happiness. May she continue to inspire and illuminate Bangladesh’s cultural landscape with her wisdom, experience, and lifelong dedication to music for many years to come.

Happy Birthday, Queen of Melody.

May your timeless voice continue to resonate across the skies of Bengali music for generations to come.