Veteran folk icon Kangalini Sufia created a deeply emotional moment during rehearsals for the TMSS Channel i Music Awards 2025 in Bogura, as she sang for and embraced legendary subcontinental singer Runa Laila in a gesture that captivated fellow artistes and organisers alike.
The city of Bogura has transformed into a vibrant centre of musical celebration ahead of the prestigious awards ceremony. The main venue, set at the Momo Inn premises, has been converted into a large-scale open-air stage complex where rehearsals have been underway since Monday evening. Prominent musicians, cultural figures, and entertainment personalities have gathered in significant numbers, turning the event into one of the most high-profile cultural assemblies in recent years.
Against this festive backdrop, Runa Laila—one of the most revered vocalists in South Asian music—was seen actively engaging with performers during rehearsal sessions ahead of the main event scheduled for the following day. During a short break in rehearsals, Kangalini Sufia approached her and performed her well-known folk piece “Matir Gache Lau Dhoirache”, delivering an impromptu performance that drew attention from those present on site.
The moment became especially poignant when Sufia finished her performance and embraced Runa Laila. The interaction symbolised a rare meeting of two generations of musical excellence—one rooted in Bangladeshi folk tradition and the other in modern subcontinental playback and classical fusion.
Following the performance, Runa Laila spoke warmly about Kangalini Sufia, praising her enduring contribution to folk music. Addressing journalists, she remarked that she had long admired Sufia’s songs and expressed her hope for her continued well-being. Her comments were met with appreciation from those in attendance, further highlighting the mutual respect between the two artistes.
Kangalini Sufia, who arrived in Bogura earlier in the day accompanied by her daughter and granddaughter, is expected to be formally honoured at this year’s awards ceremony in recognition of her lifelong contribution to folk heritage.
The rehearsal venue also saw the presence of several key organisers, including Faridur Reza Sagar, Managing Director of Impress Telefilm Limited and Channel i, who is overseeing arrangements for the grand event. Organisers have described this year’s edition as an “unprecedented” convergence of leading cultural figures from across the country.
As preparations continue at full pace, the atmosphere in Bogura remains electric, with anticipation building for a ceremony that promises to bring together some of the most influential names in Bangladesh’s music industry on a single stage.
Key Personalities and Event Overview
| Name | Role | Significance |
|---|---|---|
| Kangalini Sufia | Folk singer | Performed tribute; expected award honouree |
| Runa Laila | Legendary vocalist | Guest attendee; central figure at rehearsals |
| Faridur Reza Sagar | Organiser (Impress Telefilm/Channel i) | Overseeing event arrangements |
| TMSS Channel i Music Awards 2025 | Cultural awards event | National-level music celebration |
| Momo Inn, Bogura | Venue | Open-air rehearsal and ceremony site |
The unfolding celebrations underline not only the grandeur of the awards but also the enduring bonds between generations of Bangladesh’s musical heritage.