Photo: Courtesy
Begum Hasina Momtaz, a celebrated singer from the 1960s whose music inspired freedom-seeking individuals during the mass movement of 1969 and the liberation war, passed away on Sunday (18 February) at the age of 79.
She is survived by her only son, Shibli Rubaiyat-ul-Islam, former dean of the Faculty of Business Administration at Dhaka University and currently serving as the Chairman of the Bangladesh Securities and Exchange Commission (BSEC).
Begum Hasina Momtaz rose to prominence as a singer in the 1960s while studying in the Geography Department at Dhaka University, actively participating in various cultural endeavors.
During the mass movement of 1969 and the liberation war, her music became a source of inspiration for many seeking freedom.
She is fondly remembered for her immensely popular song ‘Tondrahara Noyon Amar’. Additionally, her notable repertoire includes ‘Keno Ek Bondi Pakhi’, ‘Oi Durer Balaka Sajher Akashe’, Mon Nebar Age’, ‘Sat-ti Sagor Pari Diye’, ‘Bonete Dakishre Koki’, and ‘Amar Jeno Ektu Somoy Nei Hate’.
In 2019, Hasina Momtaz was honoured by the Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy for her significant contributions to Bangla music.
Her late husband, Rafiqul Islam, a prominent banker, served as the managing director of National Bank Limited.
Notable songs by Hasina Momtaz:
‘Tondrahara Noyon Amar’
‘Keno Ek Bondi Pakhi’
‘Oi Durer Balaka Sajher Akashe’
‘Mon Nebar Age’
‘Sat-ti Sagor Pari Diye’
‘Bonete Dakishre Koki’
‘Amar Jeno Ektu Somoy Nei Hate’
Messenger/Fameema
