For Khairul Anam Shakil, Nazrul Sangeet exponent and vice president of Chhayanaut, Pahela Baishakh is far more than the start of a new year—it is a living expression of Bangali identity.

Dhaka is set to come alive with music and celebration this Pahela Baishakh, as multiple concerts across the capital prepare to welcome the Bengali New Year with a festive mix of pop, band music and youth-centred performances.

Legendary singer Asha Bhosle, who passed away on Sunday at Breach Candy Hospital in Mumbai, will be cremated today at 4:00pm with full state honours.

Playful, sensuous, daring and timeless, she transformed with every musical age while making each one unmistakably her own

Asha Bhosle (1933-2026) was a legend not only in the context of South Asia, but the entire musical world feels her absence.

The news sent shockwaves across the subcontinent, with heartfelt tributes pouring in from across the world of music, including from Bangladesh’s legendary vocalist, Runa Laila.

The last rites are expected to be held on Monday with full state honours, according to reports.

For the first time, Imran has lent his voice to a song composed and arranged by Hridoy Khan.

Among those seeking nominations are singers Dilruba Khan, Kanak Chapa, Baby Naznin, Rizia Parveen and Dithi Anwar, along with dancer Farhana Chowdhury Baby.

The music video features popular small-screen duo Partho Sheikh and Aisha Khan as models.

That same energy carried onto the stage. “As soon as I walked up, people started cheering and asked me to sing,” he said. “Even though we weren’t supposed to give speeches, both Bappa Mazumder and I were requested to speak—and I couldn’t leave without performing.

Legendary singer Asha Bhosle has been admitted to the ICU at Breach Candy Hospital on Saturday after suffering from cardiac and respiratory complications. The 92-year-old artiste had reportedly been unwell for several months, and hospital sources describe her condition as critical.

Popular Bangla band Meghdol is set to return to the stage with a solo concert after a long hiatus, marking Pohela Boishakh with a special show titled “Jhoro Shomoye Gaan” (Songs in Turbulent Times).

Looking ahead, she is hopeful about the industry’s potential. “Bangladesh has a lot of talent. With the right opportunities, people can create meaningful work. Projects like this show that high-quality production is possible here. I believe we can continue to grow our cultural space and reach global platforms.”

As Tashfee makes her debut in Bollywood with “Sajan Re”, The Daily Star catches up with her about the new adventure, and what lies ahead.

Thousands of fans flocked to a stadium near Seoul on Thursday as K-pop sensation BTS launched their much-anticipated world tour.

The 44th Jatiya Rabindra Sangeet Sammelan will be held on April 10 and 11 at the National Theatre Hall of the Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy, Organised by Jatiya Rabindra Sangeet Sammilan Parishad. The organisers announced at a press briefing in Dhaka.

The festival’s presale tickets had reportedly sold out shortly after release, with general sales due to begin before the cancellation was announced.

The song’s original composer and music director Shouquat Ali Imon has once again taken charge of the new arrangement.

A total of 18 awards were presented across various categories.