Sumon’s Dhallywood Debut with Asif Akbar

A significant and symbolic chapter has been added to Bangladeshi film music with the entry of acclaimed poet, lyricist, composer and singer Kabir Suman into Dhallywood cinema. For the first time in his illustrious career, Suman has written and composed songs for a Dhaka-based full-length feature film. His cinematic debut comes through Jhamela, a family-centric drama that has already generated notable interest among film critics, musicians and general audiences alike.

Kabir Suman’s music has long occupied a distinctive place in the cultural consciousness of Bangladesh. Known for his literary depth, social awareness and emotionally nuanced compositions, his songs have influenced generations of listeners across the country. Over the years, he has performed in numerous live concerts in Dhaka and other major cities, earning sustained admiration from Bangladeshi audiences. Until now, however, his creative engagement with Bangladesh remained largely confined to audio music. His formal entry into mainstream cinema is therefore being viewed as a meaningful expansion of his artistic dialogue with the country’s cultural landscape.

Jhamela features a total of six songs, three of which have been written and composed by Kabir Suman himself. A notable highlight of the project is that all six songs are sung by popular playback singer Asif Akbar. Each track is presented as a solo performance and has been crafted to align closely with the film’s narrative arc and emotional progression. The music arrangement has been handled jointly by Ujjal Sinha and Ajmir Babu, both of whom are recognised for blending contemporary musical sensibilities with story-driven compositions.

The collaboration between Kabir Suman and Asif Akbar is not a new one. Asif has frequently spoken of his admiration for Suman’s music since childhood, an appreciation that eventually evolved into professional collaboration. Their earlier joint works—released outside the film medium—were well received by listeners and helped establish a creative rapport between the two artists. Their reunion in a cinematic context is expected to add a new dimension to the film’s musical appeal and to resonate strongly with music enthusiasts.

The film stars veteran actress Dolly Johur alongside Shyamol Mawla, Tanzika Amin, Nawshaba Ahmed and Rashed Mamun Apu. Director Yamin Elan has described Jhamela as a wholly original Bangladeshi story that foregrounds family relationships, everyday struggles and emotionally charged conflicts. Filming was completed in two phases across various locations in Dhaka and Gazipur. Producers are aiming for a release during one of the Eid festivals this year, positioning the film to attract a broad family audience.

Key Film and Music Details

Overall, the fusion of Kabir Suman’s profound literary musicality with Asif Akbar’s distinctive vocal presence is widely expected to enrich Jhamela’s soundtrack, marking a memorable addition to Dhallywood’s evolving musical tradition.