Sometimes, a single song has the power to redefine a life. For Asif Akbar, that transformative moment came with “O Priya Tumi Kothay”. This coming 30th January, the iconic track will celebrate its 25th anniversary, marking a silver jubilee in the annals of Bangla music. Even after more than two decades, the song remains a monumental chapter in the nation’s musical history.
Released under the Soundtek banner on 30th January 2001, the album “O Priya Tumi Kothay” featured 12 tracks. Immediately upon release, the songs spread like wildfire—from local neighbourhoods to the city’s bustling streets. Asif, then a newcomer, achieved instant stardom with this single album. His voice became the emblem of youth, passion, longing, and love, resonating deeply with listeners of all ages. The album set sales records and even reached the ears of the Bangladeshi diaspora abroad, establishing Asif as a household name.
Recently, on Masranga Television’s programme “Behind the Fame with RRK”, Asif reflected on the journey of the song. Though the album released in January, televised broadcasts began only in July. Initially, the response was slow, but once aired, the song’s popularity surged dramatically. Reflecting on his journey, Asif said:
“Nothing in my career has come easily. Storms, floods, poverty, family pressures—I’ve had to endure them all. Yet, I find joy in overcoming these challenges.”
Key Milestones in Asif Akbar’s Journey :
| Date | Event / Milestone |
|---|---|
| 15 Oct 1997 | Arrival in Dhaka, aiming to enter the sound business |
| Late 1990s | Regular demo recordings at Shawkat Ali Emon’s studio; meets music directors Ali Akram Shuvo and Ethun Babu |
| Breakthrough | Gains attention from Ethun Babu after singing a film song; Ethun assures, “This song will make you never look back.” |
| Pre-release setback | Album launch postponed by label, causing temporary setback |
| Grassroots promotion | Distributed albums on foot across Dhaka, encouraged radio play; toured Rajshahi, Rangpur and other regions |
| Personal hardship | Son Rudra critically ill; receives moral and financial support from Ethun Babu |
The road to success was far from smooth. Just before the album’s release, the label decided to postpone the launch, leaving Asif disheartened and temporarily returning to his hometown, Comilla. Undeterred, he returned to Dhaka and, alongside Ethun Babu, traversed from Gulistan to Mirpur on foot, personally delivering albums and urging local radio stations to play the songs. Within three months, the album had become a nationwide sensation.
Amidst professional challenges, personal trials struck. One night, Asif received news that his young son, Rudra, was critically ill. Speaking about that period in a televised interview, Asif broke down, recalling Ethun Babu’s unwavering support and the modest financial assistance that helped sustain his family during the crisis.
“O Priya Tumi Kothay” marked a turning point in Asif Akbar’s life. Over the following two decades, he released more than two dozen solo albums. Although differences arose with Ethun Babu after the initial success, they reunited five years ago for the track “Chupchap Kosto Gulo” and plan regular releases in the future.
Today, 25 years on, “O Priya Tumi Kothay” is far more than a song. It is a testament to resilience, perseverance, and unwavering belief. As the silver jubilee approaches, this story of struggle and triumph once again resonates with fans, reaffirming the timeless impact of the song that changed everything.