Tuning to Bhatiali
We observe the first day of the Bengali New Year every year in a way that runs counter to the ethics and morality we uphold. While observing the day, we also make desperate attempt to memorize those persons who made no contribution to the enrichment of the Bengali language or to the emergence of Bangladesh. Contrarily, we forget them who played commendable role in this regard.
Howbeit, while reading the Unfinished Memoirs of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, my attention was caught at page number 111 and I learnt a new chapter so long hidden to us. Once the great leader Sheikh Mujib, renowned folklore singer Abbas Uddin Ahmad, Bedar Uddin Ahmad and Sohrab Hossain were going to Aushuganj by boat to catch the train.
To make the journey memorable, Abbas Uddin sang many bhatiali songs without using musical instruments. His voice was so melodious that Sheikh Mujib said that had he not heard Abbas Uddin to sing bhatiali in the riverboat, a part of his life would have remained unfulfilled.
On the other hand, Abbas Uddin said that grim conspiracy was going on against the Bengali language. “If Bengali is not recognised as the State language of Pakistan, our culture and civilisation will be destroyed.” Then turning his face to Sheikh Mujib, Abbas Uddin said, “Do something for Bengali language.” Abbas Uddin’s call did not go in vain.
And we know that the great leader was unbending in his principles but avoided adventure and romanticism in politics. He preferred reality and tried to create public opinion first before asking them to join movement. Should our political and social leaders take lessons from it?
Ameer Hamzah
Dhaka
