Album Hridoyete Poth Ketechhi featuring Dwijen Mukhopadhyay and Shama Rahman

Those who are well acquainted with Bengali music of the 1950s are familiar with his voice. With his very “Hemanta Mukherjee like” voice, he established himself as an accomplished Rabindra Sangeet and contemporary singer in the 1950s. Even in his 80s, Dwijen Mukhopadhyay’s vocals sound unwavering.

Shama Rahman, one of the leading contemporary Tagore artistes, has carved a niche through her devotion to her medium. Her deep understanding of Tagore’s lyrics and tunes have won her fans at home and abroad.

On January 11 evening, Tagore enthusiasts of Dhaka gathered at the main auditorium of the National Museum, as an album featuring Dwijen Mukhopadhyay and Shama Rahman was launched. The album, “Hridoy-ete Poth Ketechhi”, was produced by Bengal Foundation, which also held the launching event.

Renowned Nazrul researcher Dr. Rafiqul Islam unveiled the album. Dr. Islam said, “As we were shivering on this chilly evening, Dwijen Mukhopadhyay’s sonorous voice warmed our hearts.

“[Dwijen] Mukhopadhyay belongs to a range of legendary artistes like Hemanta Mukhopadhyay, Konika Bondopadhyay and Debabrata Biswas. Shama, on the other hand, represents this generation of Tagore singers. This album has brought together artistes who represent two generations — ’50s and current.”

Deputy Leader of the Parliament Syeda Sajeda Chowdhury, chief guest at the event, reminisced the days gone by - fond memories of listening to Dwijen Mukhopadhyay records or “Call-er Gaan”, as they were referred to.

Among others, Abul Khair Litu, chairman of Bengal Group, attended the event. Luva Nahid Chowdhury, director general of Bengal Foundation, hosted the programme and introduced the artistes to the audience.

Highlight of the programme was live performances by both artistes. The live music session started with a duet, “Ami Hridoy-ete Poth Ketechhi”.

According to Mukhopadhyay, the album features three duets and four solos by each singer.

Mukhopadhyay and Rahman performed another duet, “Amar Nisheeth Raat-er Badoldhara”. A unique aspect of the song is “Chhandantar” or change in rhythm. Another duet by the duo was “Kon Puraton Pran-er Taaney”.

Both Rahman and Mukhopadhyay performed solo as well. The event lasted over two hours.