Photo: Collected
Tapan Chowdhury has been associated with music since 1973, although recognition came some time later. On 7 January 2017, a programme marking 40 years of his musical career was organised at the Dhaka Club. Present at that programme were many distinguished figures, including Runa Laila, Syed Abdul Hadi, Alauddin Ali, Sheikh Sadi Khan, Niaz Mohammad Chowdhury, Ferdous Wahid, Abida Sultana, Rafiqul Alam, Nakib Khan, Kumar Bishwajit, Ayub Bachchu, Maqsood, Foad Naser Babu, Alam Ara Minu, SD Rubel and Shawkat Ali Emon.
A programme marking 50 years of his musical career is being arranged at the end of this year. Tapan Chowdhury has now settled in Canada, so the first programme is being held there. He has plans to hold a 50-year celebration in Bangladesh later as well.
The ‘Festival of 50 Years of Tapan Chowdhury’s Musical Journey’ will be held in Toronto, Canada, on 12 December. The programme is being organised by Ruptanu Music Academy and Toronto Dhaka Club. The artiste is greatly excited and delighted about the event.
He said, ‘I have received much in the long journey of my musical life. Many achievements, many gains – the affection and love of distinguished people, the boundless love of crores of fans and listeners, and everyone’s prayers. These are very great gains in life. When I held the 40-year programme in Dhaka, many came. In particular, the respected Runa Laila apa stayed for a long time at my programme. Her presence delighted me immensely. I sincerely express my gratitude to Ruptanu Music Academy and Toronto Dhaka Club. Because it is through the keen interest of these two organisations that this 50-year programme of my musical career in Toronto is becoming possible. Much love also to those who are giving inspiration from behind the scenes. I seek everyone’s prayers and love.’
Tapan Chowdhury said he will perform 15 or more songs at the programme. The song list will include ‘Mon shudhu mon chhuyechhe’, ‘E emon porichoy’, ‘Din ki rate’, ‘Kando kene kemon’, ‘Koto kandlam’, ‘Aaj phire na gelei ki noy’ and ‘Ami sobkichu chharte pari’.
