“Ityadi,” the longest-running and cherished television show in Bangladesh, has embarked on a journey to Kurigram, the riverine district renowned as the heartland of Bhawaiya music. Filmed at the historic “Ulipur Maharani Swarnamayee School And College,” a 150-year-old institution, the episode transformed its grounds into a cultural stage resonating with folk melodies and tales of the region.
Bhawaiya, the poignant folk tradition of North Bengal, is deeply ingrained in Kurigram’s culture. The episode intricately intertwines the district’s essence with its music through songs, theatrical performances, and narratives honoring the individuals who have preserved this rich heritage. Hanif Sanket, the creator of “Ityadi,” known for infusing humor, humanity, and history into the show, expressed that the Kurigram episode pays homage to a region where music flows akin to the rivers shaping its landscape.
Commencing with a dance sequence inspired by a Moniruzzaman Palash composition, capturing Kurigram’s culture and history, the performance, directed by SK Zahid, features over 50 local dancers. Vocals by Rajib and Tanzina Ruma, music by Hanif Sanket, and arrangement by Mehedi enhance the presentation. Notable folk songs like “O ki gariyal bhai,” originally sung by Bhawaiya maestro Abbasuddin Ahmed, are rejuvenated in a new rendition by Salma Akter and local folk artist Purnachandra Roy.
In the typical fashion of the show, “Ityadi” engaged with four Kurigram viewers for a musical segment celebrating Bhawaiya’s enduring legacy. Alongside, the episode sheds light on untold stories and heroes from the remote corners of Bangladesh.
Exploring Kurigram’s history and landmarks, such as the Maharani Swarnamoyee estate, the residence of Maulana Abdul Hamid Khan Bhashani, and the legacy of Bir Pratik Taramon Bibi, the episode also revisits a 2011 feature on Abdul Kader, a young entrepreneur from the district, providing an update on his inspiring journey.
The episode highlights the Bangladesh Bhawaiya Academy, established by veteran artist Bhupati Bhushan Barma, dedicated to preserving and promoting Bhawaiya music. Barma and his students showcase their talents, ensuring the continuation of folk singing traditions to the next generation.
Additionally, the episode delves into the lives of residents on Kurigram’s 400 river islands, known as chars, and features the “Rikta Akhtar Banu (Lutfa) School for Children with Special Needs” in Chilmari, offering a glimpse into the community.
Taking viewers overseas, the episode explores the scenic St. John’s Island and Kusu Island in Singapore, renowned for their architectural marvels and natural beauty.
The episode also injects humor through a playful exchange between a Kashhem TV journalist and his clever grandson, alongside the customary letter-reading session and skits addressing societal issues and current affairs.
Boasting a stellar cast including Solaiman Khoka, Abdullah Rana, Subhasish Bhowmik, Mukit Zakaria, and many others, the show’s art direction and stage design were led by Mukimul Anwar Mukim. Produced by Fagun Audio Vision and sponsored by Keya Cosmetics Ltd., the Kurigram-themed episode of “Ityadi” will premiere on Bangladesh Television (BTV) on Friday, October 31, at 8 pm, following the Bangla news.