Veteran Bangladeshi singer Runa Laila, one of the most celebrated voices in South Asian music history, is set to be honoured once again on the international stage in recognition of her extraordinary contribution to music. Renowned for her versatility across multiple languages and genres, she has long remained a defining figure whose influence spans generations and borders.
Her illustrious career, marked by timeless melodies and widespread acclaim, has earned her a unique place in the cultural heritage of the region. From Bengali songs to Urdu, Hindi and other South Asian languages, Runa Laila’s distinctive vocal artistry has resonated with audiences worldwide, securing her reputation as one of the most accomplished playback and stage singers of her era.
The upcoming cultural programme, scheduled to take place in Delhi, India, will run from 4 May to 8 May. The event will be hosted across two prominent venues: the Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts and the Dr Ambedkar International Centre. The honour will be formally presented to Runa Laila on the concluding day of the event, 8 May, in the presence of distinguished guests, cultural figures and international delegates.
Speaking about the recognition, Runa Laila expressed that the award represents not only a personal milestone but also a moment of pride for Bangladesh as a whole. She stated that being recognised as a Bangladeshi artist on such a significant platform is deeply meaningful to her. According to her, she received the official invitation and confirmation of the honour through a formal letter from the organisers.
Alongside this recognition, Runa Laila also shared updates on her upcoming musical work. A new song featuring her vocals is expected to be released soon. Initially planned as a solo composition, the piece eventually developed into a duet with renowned musician Bappa Mazumder. Although he was initially hesitant to participate, he later agreed following encouragement from Runa Laila herself.
The song is described as having a contemporary musical arrangement blended with a ghazal-inspired mood, offering a fresh stylistic experience for the veteran singer. The lyrics have been written by Galib Hasan, while the composition and musical arrangement have been crafted by Bappa Mazumder. Runa Laila noted that this particular style is new for her, making it a creatively enriching experience.
Reflecting on her long musical journey, she remarked that continuing to sing at this stage of her life remains a blessing. She expressed her desire to keep performing for audiences as long as she is able, emphasising that the love and appreciation she receives from listeners continues to inspire her.
Recently, she also performed a live concert in Sylhet, where she sang for nearly one and a half hours. She described the experience as deeply fulfilling and emotionally rewarding, highlighting the strong connection she continues to share with her audience.
Overview of the Honour and Event
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Event Duration | 4 May – 8 May |
| Location | Delhi, India |
| Venues | Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts; Dr Ambedkar International Centre |
| Honour Presentation | 8 May (Closing Ceremony) |
| Award Recipient | Runa Laila |
| Musical Collaboration | Bappa Mazumder |
| Song Style | Contemporary with Ghazal influence |
| Lyricist | Galib Hasan |
| Composer & Arranger | Bappa Mazumder |
This latest international recognition further strengthens Runa Laila’s legacy as a pioneering figure in South Asian music. It also stands as a proud moment for Bangladesh, reflecting the enduring global impact of its cultural talents.