Interview with Mahmuduzzaman Babu
To those who enjoy the songs that denote our land, our people Mahmuduzzaman Babu is a familiar name. He had reintroduced and popularised some songs that had become obscure to this generation. Here’s a one-on-one with Babu.
How did Ami Banglar Gaan Gai happen?
I came up with the idea first in 1993. I was thinking of songs that stimulate our sensitive side. I started performing Pratul Mukhapadhaya’s Ami Banglar Gaan Gai. I didn’t make any change in the lyrics or the notes of the song, but improvised the style. In 2001, I performed the song at a special musical programme on BTV on the occasion of Ekushey February. Since then the song was telecast frequently on BTV from February through August 2001. The song attained great response from the viewers and Sangeeta offered to release an album, highlighting the song.
What would you call the genre of music you practice?
I call it ’shomoi-er gaan’. Because, the songs I sing are not typically ‘gono sangeet’ (people’s song) or hardcore patriotic songs. These songs focus on the issues of this time.
Who are your favorite artistes?
Mostly artistes whose songs feature the masses. Among all the artistes, Bhupen Hazarika, Pratul Mukhapadhaya, Shumon and Tracy Chapman’s music influences me the most.
Three songs that come to your mind right now.
Shagor Sen’s Agun-er Parashamani, Tracy Chapman’s Promise and Bhupen Hazarika’s Shmoi-er Ogrogoti.
What is the driving force for the show Paran-er Gaan?
I made a proposal to the private TV channel, ATN to start a show that would bring out the talent of rural artistes who have not been touched by the mechanical life of the cities. These artistes speak of philosophies that are true and pure as their nature. Music is like prayer to these people.
An interesting event that made you laugh.
After Ami Banglar Gaan Gai became popular, quite a few people thought that I was Pratul Mukhapadhaya.
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