bdnews24.com :
Abdul Jabbar, the singer of such iconic songs as `Salam Salam Hazar Salam` and `Joy Bangla, Banglar Joy`, has passed away at the age of 79.
Jabbar died around 8:30am on Wednesday morning at Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University, his son Babu Jabbar told bdnews24.com.
The five-decade veteran of Bangladesh`s music scene had suffered failures of both kidneys and also had heart and prostrate issues, doctors said.
Jabbar was admitted to BSMMU’s Intensive Care Unit in May and was later transferred to the cabin block.
The singer`s friends, relatives and colleagues had been visiting him in the past few days after news broke of his deteriorating condition. Minister of Information Hasanul Haq Inu and many others visited the hospital after receiving word of Jabbar`s death.
During the early stages of his illness the singer said that he `wished to live on this beautiful world for a few more years if possible`, leading to an outpouring of emotion from fans and music lovers.
Jabbar played a notable role as a Swadhin Bangla Betar Kendra artiste during the Liberation War, inspiring freedom fighters with his songs.
Jabbar received Bangladesh`s highest civilian awards, Swadhinata Padak and Ekushey Padak, among other national and international awards.
`The songs of Abdul Jabbar were a deep inspiration to our youth and the freedom fighters of the Liberation War,` President Abdul Hamid said in a condolence message.
“His role in our struggle for independence will never be forgotten.”
Jabbar`s body will be taken to his home in Dhaka`s Bhuter Goli, said his eldest son Mithun Jabbar.
`He will be buried where the people of Bangladesh wish,` he said.
`My father was a fighter. He died fighting bravely all the way. When I spoke to him for the last time last night, I said – `Baba, do not give up`. `Son,` he told me, `I will not surrender so quickly’. And then I sat with him and we listened to music for a long while.`
`A great citizen has left us,` said Information Minister Inu. `He answered the call of the state and devoted his life to the welfare of the people. He enriched the arts by staying true to the spirit of the Liberation War.`
The information minister said Jabbar`s songs would be compiled and archived.
