Runa Laila

Bangla music loses its rebellious icon

“I cannot believe that we are seeing scenes like this on the streets of Bangladesh, our own people being treated like this, unbelievable,” wrote Shafin Ahmed four days ago on his Facebook profile. Little did he know that this would be the last visual he would have of his beloved motherland. All his life, Shafin had raised his voice against whatever he perceived as injustice– which also led him to leave the band he helped make legendary, Miles.

Shafin Ahmed’s legacy will persist: Runa Laila

Shafin Ahmed, who especially made a steadfast name for himself in the 1990s, has made significant contributions to the band music scene in the country. He is known for many hit songs that have deeply resonated with millions of young people.

Runa Laila applauds Kona's performance in 'Dushtu Kokil'

Runa Laila, the legendary icon of the subcontinent, shares a strong connection with contemporary artistes. Recently, this renowned artiste praised the song "Dushtu Kokil," sung by National Film Award-winning singer Kona.

Artistes from India, Pakistan honour Runa Laila’s 60-year musical journey

To commemorate her 60th year in music, prominent artistes from India and Pakistan sent heartfelt messages to the legendary singer.

Grateful for 60 years of love: Runa Laila

Runa Laila is a globally acclaimed artiste who has made her mark with various achievements including being honoured with the coveted Independence Award. This esteemed artiste, famed especially in the subcontinent, began her singing career 60 years ago, observing six decades in music today. 

Runa Laila to present new song this Eid

Three months ago, renowned subcontinental singer Runa Laila ended her 14-year hiatus from Bangladesh Betar by performing the song “O Brishti Tumi”. Following this long break, she quickly returned to the studio to record another new song. On June 9, Runa Laila lent her voice to a new track featuring lyrics by Mohammad Rafiquzzaman and a melody composed by Sadek Ali. It was recorded at the commercial operation unit studio of Bangladesh Betar.

Runa Laila to pay tribute to mothers on Mother's Day with new song

What's more noteworthy is that this iconic artiste has lent her voice to the song alongside young musician Khairul Wasi, a collaboration not commonly seen.

Nusraat Faria to host the legendary Runa Laila

During the show, Runa Laila will collaborate vocally with four contemporary artists - Imran Mahmudul, Dilshad Nahar Kona, Zanita Ahmed Zhilik, and Sabbir Nasir - in the song "Cholo Gane Gane Gori Notun Prithibi’. The lyrics are penned by Anjir Liton, with music composed by Ashraf Babu.

54th Independence Day / Runa Laila to sing ‘Bangladesh’ with 100 children

Veteran singer Runa Laila is set to sing a patriotic song titled “Bangladesh” featuring 100 children from the Bangladesh Shishu Academy, adding more significance to the special day.

November 17, 2022
November 17, 2022

Runa Laila’s voice is a gift from God: Sabina Yasmin

Today, November 17, marks the 70th birthday of legendary artiste Runa Laila. On the special occasion, Sabina Yasmin, another famous singer from Bangladesh, spoke to The Daily Star about the legacy and success of Runa Laila.

May 27, 2022
May 27, 2022

Runa Laila, Sabina Yasmin honoured with Meril Prothom Alo lifetime achievement awards

The much-anticipated Meril Prothom Alo Awards 2021 have been handed over to the winners at a glamorous ceremony held at Bangabandhu International Convention Centre (BICC), Hall of Fame. The opening address of the event was given by Matiur Rahman, Editor,  Prothom Alo.

February 6, 2022
February 6, 2022

Every year on my birthday, she would send me a sari: Runa Laila

Much like the rest of the world, Bangladesh’s music industry was shocked by the demise of eminent singer Lata Mangeshkar. Celebrated singer Runa Laila wrote a description of her bonding with the legendary singer. Runa Laila first met Lata Mangeshkar in 1974, at a concert in Mumbai, where Lata Mangeshkar was the chief guest. It was Runa Laila’s first concert in India.

December 13, 2019
December 13, 2019

A new milestone

Runa Laila, our nightingale, has been enchanting audiences around the world with her mind blowing performances for the last 50 years.

March 9, 2019
March 9, 2019

Runa Laila in a new light

Runa Laila, the melody queen has garnered her musical career with numerous hits and enthralled her audience for decades, through her astounding vocals. The songbird now extends her musical prowess to composing musical scores. In an exclusive interview with Rafi Hossain, Runa Laila opens up about her new project.

October 13, 2018
October 13, 2018

Runa Laila

Runa Laila, a music diva of the Indian subcontinent has carved a special place for herself in the hearts of the music lovers of the region with her mesmerizing performances over five decades. The music connoisseur has lent her melodious voice to over ten thousand songs in more than 15 languages.

October 13, 2018
October 13, 2018

Three cultural legends honoured

The award ceremony and gala of the 11th edition of The Daily Star-Standard Chartered Celebrating Life, a film-making, photography and lyrics contest, was held at the International Convention City Bashundhara last night.

October 6, 2018
October 6, 2018

Saga of the Melody Queen

The artiste's journey, interestingly, began with lessons of dancing. Runa Laila took lessons of Bharatanatyam and Kathak style dancing from the Bulbul Academy of Fine Arts in Karachi, Pakistan.

October 6, 2018
October 6, 2018

The Nightingale Speaks

In an exclusive interview with Rafi Hossain, the queen of melody shares stories of her journey of successes, achievements and passions.

August 14, 2017
August 14, 2017

Runa Laila performs for BTV after 23 years

“Tomaderey Gaan Shonabo” has a treat up their sleeves for viewers on Eid-ul Azha. Arranged by BTV's Chief Director SM Harunur Rashid and produced by Mahbuba Ferdous, the musical programme will invite Runa Laila to perform on BTV after over two decades.