The 20th TMSS–Channel I Music Awards is set to shine a spotlight on the vibrant fusion of Bengali musical heritage and contemporary artistry. The awards ceremony will take place on 7 April at the open-air grounds of the five-star Momo Inn Hotel & Resort in Bogura, northern Bangladesh, and will continue from early evening until nightfall, promising a spectacular celebration of music.
This year, the organisers have announced that the distinguished singer Konokchapa will receive the Lifetime Achievement Award, recognising her extraordinary contributions to Bengali music over decades. Alongside her, folk music luminary Kangalini Sufia will be honoured with a Special Recognition Award for her unwavering dedication to rural and folk traditions. Her soulful performances in palli-geeti and heartfelt songs have enriched Bengali folk music, inspiring both audiences and emerging artists.
Speaking about her award, Konokchapa remarked, “Receiving this honour fills me with deep pride and motivation. It encourages me to continue exploring and creating music with passion.” Kangalini Sufia shared, “Folk music is the essence of my life. This recognition will also inspire artists from the remote corners of our country.”
In addition to these prestigious honours, the awards ceremony will feature 18 competitive categories, spanning modern, folk, film, and band music. Categories include Best Male Singer, Best Female Singer, Best Song, Best Album, Best Band, Best Film Song, Best Music Director, Best Lyricist, among others. A large number of nominations have been submitted in each category, making competition particularly intense this year.
| Award Category | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Lifetime Achievement | Recognises exceptional contribution to Bengali music |
| Special Recognition | Acknowledges long-term dedication to folk and traditional music |
| Best Male Singer | Awarded to the most outstanding male vocalist |
| Best Female Singer | Awarded to the most outstanding female vocalist |
| Best Song | For the year’s most acclaimed song |
| Best Album | Awarded for excellence in a complete album |
| Best Band | Recognises outstanding performance by a musical band |
| Best Film Song | Award for the finest song featured in cinema |
| Best Music Director | Recognises exceptional music direction |
| Best Lyricist | Awarded for excellence in songwriting |
The awards night will be attended by leading figures in Bangladesh’s music and cultural spheres, including Faridur Reza Sagar, Managing Director of Channel I; Shaikh Siraj, Director and Chief News Officer; Dr Hosne Ara Begum, Founder Executive Director of TMSS; legendary singers Runa Laila and Sabina Yasmin; renowned actor and director Afzal Hossain; and prominent vocalists Mohammad Khurshid Alam, Rafiqul Alam, Konal, Imran, Liza, and Luipas.
Organisers expect thousands of music enthusiasts from Bogura and surrounding districts, creating a cultural festival of exceptional scale. The entire event, including the award presentations and live performances, will be broadcast live on Channel I, allowing viewers across the country to celebrate Bengali music and honour its icons.