A voice that stood like a warrior against oppression, Nazrul Sangeet exponent Dalia Nausheen was more than a powerful presence at Swadhin Bangla Betar Kendra—she was a custodian of Bengali culture, holding firm till her last breath to the belief that Bangladesh would remain liberal and progressive in its ideals, philosophy and ideology.

I woke up before dawn on Wednesday to a call from my younger sister, Nazia. The ICU doctors had asked that the family come in. A quiet fear settled in my chest.

As part of the celebration, eminent Nazrul researcher Professor Dr Nashid Kamal and renowned violinist Sunil Chandra Das were honoured for their outstanding contributions to Nazrul Sangeet. Dalia Nausheen presented them with flowers.

This year, four veteran figures are set to be honoured with the Nazrul Padak, as announced by the Jatiya Kabi Kazi Nazrul Islam University. The recipients of the award include renowned Nazrul Sangeet artistes Dalia Nausheen and Salahuddin Ahmed, alongside esteemed researchers Dr Gulshan Ara Kazi and Anupam Hayat.

Noted singer Dalia Nausheen and Kolkata-based popular singer Monomoy Bhattacharya will perform in Dhaka today evening at Gulshan Club.