In the bustling city streets, the everyday hustle often distracts us from appreciating the simple things around us. If we pause and observe, we can witness people engaging in various activities to sustain themselves. While many cater to a wide customer base for livelihood, there are those driven by pure passion for their craft. Among them is a street flute player, known locally as a “bongshibadok,” who can be spotted playing bamboo flutes on the streets of Dhaka.
One such individual is Mokbul Hossain, a flautist who spends his days in the Mohammadpur area selling and playing flutes. As the afternoon sets in and Mohammadpur streets come alive, he serenades passersby with his music, finding solace in bringing joy to others.
“I play the flute in the afternoons when I feel inspired to bring joy to people,” Mokbul shares.
He often performs popular folk songs like “Lalongeeti,” “Bonde Maya Lagaise,” and “Aage Ki Shundor Din Kataitam,” reflecting the essence of Bengali culture. His music serves as a tranquil rebellion against the city’s chaos, attracting listeners who appreciate his melodious tunes and are intrigued by his collection of handmade bamboo flutes.
Mokbul’s musical journey began out of personal curiosity rather than a family tradition. “I have been playing the flute for about 20-23 years and selling them for 15 years. I travel across Bangladesh to various events and markets. Initially, it was a hobby that turned into a passion. Later, I honed my skills under a mentor,” he explains.
He not only plays music but also teaches interested individuals the basics of flute playing, showcasing his craftsmanship to potential buyers. Mokbul sources his flutes from local artisans in Sreemoddi village and oversees their production, making improvements to enhance both sound quality and aesthetics.
His love for music has transcended to his daughters, who, besides pursuing higher education, have inherited his musical talent. “My daughters excel in playing the flute, violin, and dotara, surpassing my own skills,” he proudly admits.
Mokbul Hossain is just one of the many dedicated street artists in Dhaka, each weaving their own musical stories. In a different part of the city, Monir Hossain, another flautist in Gulshan 2, captivates passersby with his renditions of Lalon songs, receiving tokens of appreciation known as “bokhshish.”
Dreaming of a society where artists are respected, Monir wishes for a space where creative individuals can freely express themselves and earn a living with dignity. “We don’t seek handouts; we simply desire respect and the freedom to pursue our art alongside others,” he emphasizes.
Despite their daily challenges, these flute artists, like many others, supplement their street performances by seeking opportunities at events like birthdays and weddings. While their art may not fully support their families or guarantee recognition, their unwavering dedication to music perseveres through hardships.
Unlike the Pied Piper of Hamelin seeking retribution, Mokbul and Monir seek only appreciation and respect for their craft. In a world driven by materialism, their flutes narrate a different tale, one where the value of art transcends monetary measurements.