As Bangladesh approaches its 13th parliamentary elections, the nation’s political discourse is reaching fever pitch. From children to the elderly, and farmers to poets, conversations across the country are dominated by discussions about voting and the electoral process. Amid this heightened political awareness, one of the country’s most celebrated folk and Baul singers, Abdul Kuddus Boyati, has added his voice to the national debate.
On the evening of Monday, 9 January, Boyati took to Facebook to post: “Even the party that calls songs haram seeks votes through songs.” While he refrained from naming any specific political party, his remark quickly attracted widespread attention, prompting a surge of supportive responses in the comment section from fans and citizens alike.
Boyati has long been vocal on social and political issues through social media, with his opinions often sparking broad discussions among the public, especially the youth. Known as a cultural figure who connects deeply with his audience, he consistently uses his platform to highlight societal matters and engage with citizens on topics beyond music.
Abdul Kuddus Boyati began his artistic career in 1992. He first gained public recognition by performing the song “Ei Din, Din Na Aro Din Ache” under the direction of the late acclaimed author Humayun Ahmed, as part of an initiative to promote primary education. More recently, during the COVID-19 pandemic, he contributed to BRAC’s social awareness campaign by performing the song “Jaina Cholen, Maina Cholen,” aimed at public health education.
To date, Boyati has released two solo albums and has lent his voice to numerous popular advertisements, television dramas, and documentaries, cementing his position in the hearts of ordinary Bangladeshis. He hails from Rajibpur village in Kendua Upazila of Netrokona District.
The table below summarises his artistic journey and key contributions:
| Title / Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Birthplace | Rajibpur, Kendua, Netrokona District |
| Public Recognition | 1992 song “Ei Din, Din Na Aro Din Ache” |
| Notable Work | BRAC COVID-19 awareness song “Jaina Cholen, Maina Cholen” |
| Solo Albums Released | 2 |
| Other Contributions | Songs in advertisements, dramas, documentaries |
| Social Role | Vocal on social issues via media; comments on voting and electoral processes |
Boyati’s recent remarks underscore his role not merely as an artist but as an influential voice for social consciousness. His perspectives on elections and democracy, coupled with his music-centred messages, continue to inspire and engage citizens, reflecting the unique power of cultural figures in shaping public dialogue in Bangladesh.