Renowned musician Tapan Chowdhury has been living in Canada for a long time, but he often visits Bangladesh for his musical commitments. He decided to stay in Canada for the safety of his family during the pandemic, but after receiving an invitation to sing at the celebrations for the golden jubilee of Bangladesh's independence, he was more than happy to come back to the country.

Though he was set to present his own song on such a momentous occasion, it seemed like the organising committee had completely forgotten about their arrangement with him. This incident left the singer in a state of shock. 

"I have never wanted to sing at any programme, unless I was approached by the organisers first. I have never forced anyone to choose me for events either. I will never forget this incident, and I will not forgive the person who is responsible for it," said Tapan Chowdhury with a heavy heart. "I came to the country after verbally finalising everything with the committee. As artistes, we always want love from our audience, especially from those who have been with us for decades in our country, but this humiliation was just unacceptable."

Moreover, the musician tested positive for Covid-19 on April 9. He is undergoing treatment from his home in Bangladesh, but his family in Canada is worried. "I don't want any mercy from the authorities. Even if death comes to me, I will accept it," said an emotional Tapan Chowdhury. "I don't know what will happen to me. However, I never expected to be treated like this. All I wished for was to sing on the grand occasion."

"I know that my fans and loved ones are praying for me," he concludes.

Translated by Ashley Shoptorshi Samaddar