The colossal event included several A-listed artistes performing Bangla songs, composed over the last 100 years, back to back.

Due to popular requests and to preserve the songs presented at that event, HSBC has taken an initiative to record the performances in three CDs. The collection of these albums titled Shotoborsher Bangla Gaan was launched at a restaurant on May 18.

Including 38 songs, the collection also contains a brochure with commentary on some of the songs from selected era.

Noted researcher and music exponent Dr Karunamoy Goswami; Md Mahbub-Ur-Rahman, corporate banking head of HSBC; Steve Banner, CEO of HSBC Bangladesh and Mustafizur R Khan, manager marketing and public, spoke at the event. Shujeo Shyam, music director of the Shotoborsher Bangla Gaan concert and artistes who had performed at the concert Shaheen Samad, Khayrul Anam Shakil, Chandona Majumder and Mahiuzzaman Chowdhury also attended the event.

Md Mahbubur Rahman said in his speech, "It's not possible to capture the brilliance of Bangla songs that have become iconic in the course of 100 years but our musical programme was an effort to present and promote our musical heritage. HSBC claims to be 'world's local bank' and it intends to play its part in upholding the local culture and heritage.

"Since the songs have been recorded live at the concert, quality of sound effects may not be that great in certain songs but I'm sure music aficionados will overlook that."

Dr Karunamoy Goswami said, "Music is the richest and yet most vulnerable point of the Bangalee culture. HSBC's initiatives to promote Bangla music are certainly commendable. I hope, their endeavours continue and Bangla music lovers can enjoy more such treats like these albums."

Added attraction of the album launch was performances by artistes attending the event.

The collection of albums is a limited edition and not available for purchase. However, HSBC Bangladesh has launched an online promotion for non-resident Bangladeshis (NRB). First 500 qualifying NRBs, who apply via HSBC Bangladesh's website will receive these albums.