Sharmin Rahman Rauma: A versatile singer and journalist extraordinaire

Photo: Sheikh Mehedi Morshed

Prominent singer and devoted journalist, Sharmin Rahman Rauma has successfully made her mark in both the entertainment and journalism industries in Bangladesh with her promising work. Her father, AKM Bazlur Rahman, was the inspiration behind her journalistic career, whereas her mother Shajeda Rahman motivated her to be a singer.

Rauma started her journalistic career as a television programme host for Channel i in 2000. She eventually moved to ATN Bangla as a host and news presenter, and worked there for 14 years. She also worked as a programme producer, news editor, presenter and reporter for London Bangla TV later in her career. Upon returning to Bangladesh and rejoining ATN Bangla, she simultaneously joined The Daily Independent as a sub-editor. “While I was working at The Daily Independent, I started working as a freelance news presenter for BBC. After numerous performances and examinations, I have now reached a good position in BBC World Service. I am now a series producer for BBC Probaho TV,” said Rauma.

Apart from being a stellar journo, Rauma is also a versatile singer, and has received training in both Indian classical and western classical music. Her training in Indian classical music began at a tender age through her mother’s influence. She was admitted to Bulbul Academy of Fine Arts (BAFA) and completed a five-year course in Nazrul Sangeet under the guidance of Salahuddin Ahmed and Yakub Ali Khan, and learnt Indian classical music from Leo J Barai. Rauma also took lessons at the Dhaka International Music School, where she learnt to play the piano alongside western classical vocal music.

Rauma’s first album, titled Swapner Diganta Chhuye, under the label of G-Series, was released in 2006. Renowned singer-composers Manam Ahmed, Ayub Bachchu, Fuad Naser Babu, SI Tutul and Bappa Mazumder composed songs for the album. Her second solo album Swapnajatra was released in 2009. Celebrated lyricist Mahmud Khurshid wrote the titular song for the album, which was composed by Manam Ahmed. The album, especially the title song, was well received by the audience. Rauma has also lent her voice for playback music in almost 50 films. “I am sincerely grateful to Kabir Bakul Bhai and Showquat Ali Imon Bhai for giving me many opportunities in playback singing,” says Rauma. According to Rauma, time management and equal commitment are the two secrets of success when it comes to juggling two such demanding professions at the same time.