MW Magazine and MAYA pay tribute to Hason Raja's at 'Songs of Bengal: Pran Bondher Shone'

In a heartfelt celebration of Bengal's rich folk heritage, MW Magazine Bangladesh, in partnership with MAYA, organised “Songs of Bengal: Pran Bondher Shone” at Aloki Convention Centre today (June 12). Held ahead of World Music Day, the musical evening paid tribute to the legacy of mystic poet and songwriter Dewan Hason Raja, whose songs continue to resonate with audiences more than a century after his lifetime.

Curated and musically directed by acclaimed singer-songwriter Shayan Chowdhury Arnob, the programme sought to bridge the gap between tradition and modernity by presenting Hason Raja's timeless compositions through contemporary musical arrangements while preserving their philosophical and spiritual essence. 

Though rain delayed the start of the programme, it only added to the mood of the evening, which celebrated Hason Raja's deep connection to nature and spirituality.

The evening opened with a rendition of Hason Raja's iconic song "Ami Kichu Noy Re", setting the tone for a journey through the mystic poet's reflections on humility, self-discovery and the ever-flowing nature of life. This was followed by "Range Rangila Kanai" and "Thakur Bine Pran To Bachena".

Between the musical performances were narrative segments tracing Hason Raja's life journey—from his privileged upbringing and youthful indulgences to his spiritual awakening, which would later inspire some of Bengal's most enduring folk songs. These moments provided context to the music, making the evening feel not just like another show, but an homage to the poet's life and legacy.

Kaniz Khandaker Mitu then took the stage with soulful performances of "Pirit Koirase Dewana" and "Sona Bondhe Amare Dewana Banailo". Her renditions highlighted the longing embedded within Hason Raja's songs, drawing the audience into themes of love, devotion and spiritual yearning.

One of the evening's standout moments came when renowned folk singer Hamida Parveen performed "Dilaram". Her powerful vocal delivery captivated the audience, reaffirming why Hason Raja's compositions continue to hold a special place in Bengal's musical tradition.

Later in the programme, Arnob himself took the stage, performing beloved Hason Raja classics including "Baula Ke Banailo Re" and "Loke Bole O Bole Re". Through his signature style, Arnob offered fresh interpretations of the songs while remaining faithful to their original spirit, earning enthusiastic applause from the audience.

The celebration continued with performances by other artists, including renditions of "Nisha Lagilo Re" and "Agun Lagaiya Dilo Kone", further showcasing the diversity and richness of Hason Raja's body of work. Each performance explored different sides of the poet's philosophy, from mystical introspection to the complexities of human love and longing.

The evening concluded with a moving group performance of "Charilam Hasoner Nao Re", bringing all participating artistes together on stage in a tribute to the poet's enduring legacy. The collective rendition served as a fitting finale, highlighting the communal spirit that lies at the heart of Bengal's folk traditions.
The event was attended by several distinguished guests from Bangladesh's cultural and entertainment spheres, including celebrated actors Abul Hayat, Chanchal Chowdhury, Afzal Hossain and Nazifa Tushi, among others. Their presence reflected the significance of the initiative in preserving and promoting the country's artistic heritage.

In her welcome address, Rumana Chowdhury, Editor and Publisher of MW Magazine Bangladesh, emphasised the importance of making cultural heritage accessible to younger generations through reinterpretation and creative engagement. Malik Mohammed Sayeed, CEO of Square Toiletries Limited, also spoke about the role of such initiatives in encouraging audiences to reconnect with Bangladesh's rich musical traditions.

More than a musical performance, “Songs of Bengal: Pran Bondher Shone” gave the audience a reminder of Hason Raja's continuing relevance in contemporary society. Through music, storytelling and artistic expression, the programme successfully introduced the poet's philosophy to a new generation while celebrating a legacy that remains deeply stitched into the cultural fabric of Bengal.