Diplomatic Desk:
With the aim of further strengthening the cultural bonds between Bangladesh and India, a special musical evening was held at the Indian High Commission in Dhaka to commemorate legendary South Asian artists Lata Mangeshkar, Kishore Kumar, and Manna Dey. The event, titled “A Musical Evening with Legends,” took place on Thursday (October 15, 2026) on the premises of the Indian High Commission, organized in collaboration with the Indira Gandhi Cultural Centre (IGCC). The primary objective was to celebrate the timeless musical contributions of these three icons and their enduring popularity among audiences in both Bangladesh and India.
Speaking at the event, Pawan Kumar Badhe, Acting Indian High Commissioner in Dhaka, highlighted the rich musical legacy of Lata Mangeshkar, Kishore Kumar, and Manna Dey, noting how their popularity has transcended generations. He also emphasized the vital role that music, the arts, and mutual cultural exchange play in reinforcing the existing cultural ties between Bangladesh and India.
During the musical evening, prominent Bangladeshi vocalists Samarjit Roy and Anupama Mukti performed popular songs by these three legendary artists. Samarjit Roy, who is trained in Indian classical music, captivated the audience with his renditions of several well-known songs originally sung by Kishore Kumar and Manna Dey. Meanwhile, Anupama Mukti—a familiar name in the Bangladeshi film and music industry—performed a selection of timeless songs by Lata Mangeshkar.
A joint performance by Samarjit Roy and Anupama Mukti served as another highlight of the evening. They were accompanied by a group of skilled instrumentalists. The event was attended by senior artists from various cultural organizations in Bangladesh, prominent cultural figures, and music enthusiasts who traveled from different parts of the country. At the conclusion of the program, the participating artists were honored for their contributions. This musical evening, organized in memory of legendary artists, highlights the shared cultural heritage of the two nations, the people’s love for music, and the importance of cultural exchange in fostering people-to-people ties.
