A new television programme celebrating the rich heritage of Bangladeshi folk music is set to reach audiences soon, bringing together veteran performers and emerging voices on a single platform. The programme, titled I Folk Fever, has been organised by Channel i and will feature a wide range of traditional folk songs performed by some of the country’s most respected singers.
Among the most prominent participants is legendary vocalist Sabina Yasmin, whose illustrious career spans several decades. Widely regarded as one of the most influential voices in Bangladeshi music, she recently completed the recording of her segment at the Channel i studio in Dhaka. For the programme, she recorded five folk songs that reflect the deep emotional and cultural roots of rural Bengali musical traditions.
According to the organisers, I Folk Fever has been designed as a multi-episode series dedicated to showcasing the diversity of folk music across Bangladesh. The show will be broadcast in a total of 23 episodes, each highlighting performances from established artists as well as promising younger singers. By bringing together musicians from different generations, the programme aims to create a vibrant musical dialogue between tradition and contemporary interpretation.
Speaking about her participation, Sabina Yasmin emphasised the enduring significance of folk music in Bengali culture. She noted that rural folk songs, including palligeeti and other traditional forms, remain deeply embedded in the collective emotional landscape of the nation. Reflecting on the recording session, she said that performing five folk songs for a single programme was a rare and enjoyable experience, adding that she thoroughly relished singing each piece.
Alongside Sabina Yasmin, a host of well-known performers have contributed to the programme. These include acclaimed singers such as Rafiqul Alam, Khurshid Alam, Konok Chapa, and Ferdous Ara. Popular folk artists including Salma and Nakul Kumar Biswas have also recorded performances for the series.
The programme further features contributions from a younger generation of musicians such as Sania Sultana Liza and Zinia Zafrin Luipa, along with several other performers including Sagar Dewan, Aleya Boyati, Akkas Dewan, Kajol Dewan, Jhilik, Mukta Sarkar, Parvez, Ashik, and Akash Mahmud.
Key Details of I Folk Fever
| Feature | Information |
|---|---|
| Programme Title | I Folk Fever |
| Organiser | Channel i |
| Total Episodes | 23 |
| Format | Folk music performances by veteran and emerging artists |
| Recording Venue | Channel i Studio, Dhaka |
| Featured Artist | Sabina Yasmin (five songs recorded) |
| Producer | Iftekhar Munim Ahsan |
| Concept Planner | Jahangir Sayeed |
Producers say the initiative is intended not only as an entertainment programme but also as a cultural project aimed at preserving Bangladesh’s folk traditions. Folk music forms such as baul, bhatiyali, bhawaiya, and palligeeti have historically played a vital role in expressing the social life, spirituality, and emotions of rural communities.
By presenting these songs through a contemporary television format, I Folk Fever seeks to introduce younger viewers to the richness of traditional music while offering long-time listeners the pleasure of hearing their favourite artists revisit beloved folk melodies.
The programme is expected to premiere on Channel i in the near future, promising audiences a nostalgic yet vibrant journey through the timeless sounds of Bangladeshi folk music.