When Tanzir Tuhin, front-man of leading indie rock band Shironamhin announced on Friday via Facebook that he was leaving the band, fans reacted in shock and disbelief. In a brief follow-up post he clarified that he was not leaving music; just the band. The massively popular vocalist spoke to The Daily Star yesterday about what prompted the decision.

“I was suffering from heart complications and was hospitalized. The doctor had told me to take a month's rest before getting back to music, but it turns out my band-mates could not make this small accommodation. Their financial interests superseded our decades of friendship and they had recruited a new vocal to do shows, without informing me,” Tuhin said.

“They also told me that in some 'corporate shows' there is a demand for English songs, and that the other vocal would be singing the English numbers there sharing stage with me. I have never stood for that, and I won't do it now,” he added. “I felt humiliated.”

About the band's future, Tuhin said “The band is now on hiatus. I will discuss with my band-mates and lawyers some legal issues before the band can do anything further. I have written and composed many of the songs, and I want to retain my rights on them.”

Asked about his fans' reactions, the singer added: “I know that they are all sad to hear the news. But I hope they will understand under what circumstances I had to take the decision. I hope they will put themselves in my shoes.”

Asked whether he has any immediate plans about his musical career, Tuhin says “I will return to music by the end of this month. I don't have any plans right now, but I will hope that all my listeners and fans that have showered me with so much love, will continue to support me and my music.”

Shironamhin, formed in 1996, made a big splash with their 2004 debut album “Jahajee”, and with their unique blend of music has become one of the biggest bands of Bangladesh, both in terms of albums and live concerts. Their popularity soared with subsequent albums “Ichche Ghuri” (2016), “Bondho Janala” (2009), Rabindra Sangeet album “Shironamhin Rabindranath” (2010) and self-titled “Shironamhin” (2013).