Sangeet Oikya Bangladesh formed to combat challenges of musicians

With an aim to overcome challenges and neglect faced by musicians, several lyricists, composers, and vocalists have formed a committee called, 'Sangeet Oikya Bangladesh' for the first time in the history of the country. Three organisations, Gitikobi Sangha Bangladesh, Music Composers Society of Bangladesh and Singers Association of Bangladesh came under the umbrella. Through an online press conference, Kumar Biswajit, General Secretary, Singers Association of Bangladesh, unveiled the committee.

From Singers Association of Bangladesh, eminent singer Rezwana Choudhury  Bannya delivered her welcome speech. ''This moment is extremely precious to all of us. It hasn't been too long that we formed our association, but through the process, we learnt that there is no alternative to unity. Standing by each other in crisis is what is needed. If more associations join, the work will gain better attention. The reason for this press conference today is to highlight the importance of working together," she said.

Regarding the objective of Sangeet Oikya Bangladesh, Naqib Khan, President of Music Composers Society, said, "We formed this platform with the conviction of fighting together for the development, respect, and dignity of music."

Shahid Mahmud Jangi, President of Geetikabi Sangha, discussed the structure of the newly formed association. "We formed three organisations at this time last year. We noticed that there were some identical claims by each of them. We penned 17 points to present to the associated ministry. Four representatives from three associations formed the executive committee. We want to create a link between every musician in every district of Bangladesh," he added.

Kumar Biswajit towards the end of the question and answer session with journalists concluded that all 17 points have been presented and approved by the concerned ministry. The process will take place in three steps and hopefully in a short time, the initiative will see the light of day. Noted singers and musicians were present in the online conference.

The author is an art researcher and writer in the making.