Committed to PEOPLE'S RIGHT TO KNOW
Vol. 5 Num 269 Mon. February 28, 2005  
   
Editorial


Editorial
An irreparable loss
His songs will remain in our hearts
WE deeply mourn the passing away of music legend and language movement veteran Abdul Latif at the age of 78. He was one of the vanishing breed of folk music legends in the country. Born at a small village in Barisal, Abdul Latif made signal contributions to the promotion of folk music and culture in Bangladesh and will always be remembered as such.

Abdul Latif had been a pioneering figure in grooming up folk musicians since the partition of the subcontinent. His talents were undoubtedly on the same par as those of other music veterans of the subcontinent. His song 'Ora amar mukher bhasha kaira nite chai' marking the language movement of 1952 still inspires us. His lyrics always spoke of the struggle of common people, people living hand to mouth, people who are deprived, suppressed and underprivileged. His tunes were simple and catchy so that those he was singing for could identify themselves with his songs.

Abdul Latif's songs in his trademark baritone voice during the freedom fight of 1971 transmitted through Swadhin Bangla Betar Kendra inspired those in the battlefield as well as those trapped inside the country. Unlike some other legends of the country, Abdul Latif's contribution was thankfully acknowledged by the authorities. He received both the Ekushey and Swadhinata Award in his lifetime. Those who knew him personally will miss his down-to-earth nature, and those who were motivated by his songs will continue to be inspired by them. What a great loss it is for the nation. Our deepest sympathies and condolences are with the members of his bereaved family. May his soul rest in peace.