The Television Reporters Unity of Bangladesh (TRAB) is set to pay tribute to three influential figures in Bangladeshi music and entertainment during the 36th TRAB Business, CSR, and Cultural Awards 2025, honoring their enduring commitment to artistic excellence across different eras.
The late playback singer Bashir Ahmed will be posthumously recognized, while the legendary vocalist Syed Abdul Hadi and iconic magician Jewel Aich will be presented with lifetime achievement awards.
The prestigious event is scheduled to take place on February 15 at the Crystal Ballroom of Hotel InterContinental in Shahbagh, Dhaka. The ceremony will include a grand cultural showcase and accolades spanning finance, industry, commerce, cinema, television, music, and journalism.
Bashir Ahmed, known for his exceptional talent in South Asian playback singing, emerged as a notable voice in the music industry. Originating from a family with roots in Delhi, he honed his skills in Kolkata under Ustad Belayet Hossain before furthering his training in Mumbai with Ustad Bade Ghulam Ali Khan, a renowned figure in classical music. Starting his career by lending his voice to Urdu films, Bashir Ahmed quickly gained recognition for his profound emotions and mastery of classical singing techniques.
His rendition of the song “Jab Tum Akele Hoge Hum Yaad Aayenge” garnered widespread popularity in Pakistan, solidifying his reputation internationally. Noteworthy collaborations, such as working with the esteemed singer Talat Mahmood in the film “Talash,” added to his acclaim. Bashir Ahmed passed away at his Mohammadpur residence on April 19, 2014. He was honored with the National Film Award for Best Male Playback Singer in 2003 for “Kokhono Megh Kokhono Brishti” and received the Ekushey Padak in 2005.
Syed Abdul Hadi, born on July 1, 1940, in Shahpur village of Kasba upazila in Brahmanbaria, is recognized as a prominent figure in Bangladeshi patriotic and film music. With a career spanning over five decades, his songs have resonated with multiple generations, shaping emotional expressions through his musical creations.
Having received several National Film Awards for his playback singing, including for renowned songs like “Golapi Ekhon Train-e” (1978) and “Aaul Baul Lalon-er Deshe Michael Jackson Elo Re” from the film “Dhaka 86,” his impact on the cultural landscape is enduring.
Jewel Aich, originally Gouranga Lal Aich, born on April 10 in Barishal, grew up in Samudaykathi village of Swarupkathi upazila in Pirojpur. His fascination with magic blossomed from early encounters with Bede troupe performances and witnessing the intriguing illusions of the Banaripara Circus.
Inspired by the magic of magicians like Abdur Rashid and the folktales of Bande Ali Mia, Aich delved deeper into the art form, ultimately crafting a unique performance style that popularized magic in Bangladesh. Known for his remarkable illusions such as transforming paper into currency, driving blindfolded, and reattaching severed limbs, Aich’s captivating performances have captivated audiences both locally and internationally.