Runa Laila, a renowned singer from South Asia, has been a prominent figure for more than sixty years. Known for her expertise in Bengali, Urdu, and Hindi music, the Bangladeshi artist is revered as a unifying force between different cultures and generations. However, her journey to musical stardom was filled with challenges.
Upon returning to Bangladesh in the 1970s after a successful stint in Pakistan, Runa faced resistance and professional marginalization within the local music scene. Despite some artists refusing to perform with her and others attempting to sideline her, she persevered and continued to sing. In an exclusive interview with Prothom Alo, she shared how despite boycott attempts, her loyal audiences, musicians, and music directors stood by her.
Born in Sylhet and raised partially in Karachi, Runa initially pursued dance rather than music. Under the guidance of Afroza Bulbul at the Bulbul Academy of Fine Arts in Karachi, she studied kathak and bharatanatyam for four years. Even today, elements of her dance training influence her stage performances.
Her transition to music was serendipitous. While her sister received singing lessons, Runa absorbed the music from the next room. Upon hearing her sing, Ustad Abdul Kader predicted her future fame, which soon became a reality.
At the age of 12, Runa recorded her first playback song, “Guria Si Munni Meri,” for the 1965 Urdu film “Jugnu.” This marked the beginning of a successful career that quickly propelled her to stardom in Pakistan and beyond. By the early 1970s, she was considered a rising star in the music industry, following in the footsteps of Noor Jehan.
Runa’s popularity transcended borders, particularly in India, where her versatility and clear vocal delivery garnered a massive following. She recorded in 17 languages, showcasing a unique blend of subcontinental roots and global appeal.
Despite facing challenges upon her return to Bangladesh in the mid-1970s, Runa remained undeterred. Refusing to succumb to professional isolation, she emphasized the importance of positivity and perseverance in overcoming obstacles.
Her unwavering faith and resilience were pivotal in her career. Collaborating with acclaimed composers and achieving remarkable feats, such as recording over 30 songs in three days for a project at a Mumbai studio, showcased her talent and dedication. Her album “Super Runa” in 1982, produced by EMI at London’s Abbey Road Studios, sold over a hundred thousand copies on its launch day, earning her a gold disc.
Runa’s music has stood the test of time, resonating with audiences across generations. To commemorate her six decades in the industry, Maasranga Television is airing a special episode of “Star Night,” featuring rare footage, photographs, and tributes from prominent artists in Bangladesh, India, and Pakistan.
Reflecting on her journey, Runa remains grounded in faith and humility, emphasizing the importance of forgiveness and belief in divine justice. Six decades later, her voice continues to captivate audiences, transcending barriers and leaving an indelible mark on the world of music.