Coke Studio Bangla released their latest song ‘Deora’ on Sunday, which pays homage to the Nouka Baich boat race, a traditional sport popular in the northern regions of Bangladesh during the Monsoon and Autumn seasons.
The song features Pritom Hasan, a celebrated youth icon and music producer, along with well-known folk singer and performer Islamuddin Palakar. Armeen Musa, Bangladesh's first Grammy nominee, and her choir, Ghash Phoring, also contribute to the song's rich soundscape.
‘Deora’ is a blend of traditional folk genres like ‘Shaari Gaan,’ typically associated with physical labour, and ‘Jaag Gaan,’ which features motivational lyrics. This combination is ideal for a sport that demands intense bursts of energy to row boats across the finish line.
The song's lyrics, written by Fazlu Majhi and Pritom Hasan, capture the passion and energy of the boat racers. Fazlu Majhi is a professional boat racer who leads his own team, and his group lends their voices to the song, adding depth and authenticity to the performance.
Pritom Hasan brings his unique perspective to the song, celebrating the colorful genres of Bangladeshi music. His vocals are complemented by the Ghaashphoring Choir, which creates a fresh, new sound for young listeners.
"I always try to push boundaries and do something different in my career that captures the audience's imagination," said Pritom Hasan. "Coke Studio Bangla provided me with a platform to push my boundaries even further. 'Deora' is a song that everyone will enjoy singing along to, and it will bring magic to their lives."
Armeen Musa was thrilled to be part of the project. "Working on 'Deora' was an amazing experience," she said. "When different artists and choirs collaborate to create harmony, the result is magical."
Islamuddin Palakar, who represents the cultural heritage of Bangladesh through his performances of ‘Pala Gaan,’ a folk performance inherited from previous generations, brings "Deora" to life with his dynamic performance. His vocal style is a significant part of Bangladesh's cultural heritage, particularly in rural areas.
"I have been practicing and performing Pala Gaan since my childhood," said Islamuddin Palakar. "This art is what I have loved all my life and dedicated my life to. Being able to showcase this art on Coke Studio Bangla's platform gives me immense pleasure. I hope the younger generation will love this unique fusion and be encouraged to take this art to the next level."
Through ‘Deora,’ Coke Studio Bangla celebrates the beauty of Bangladesh's rural heritage and brings it to a wider audience. The combination of Pritom's modern music practice, Fazlu Majhi's lively lyrics, and Islamuddin Palakar's energetic Pala Gaan performance creates a vibrant and authentic celebration of the country's cultural roots.
TDM/MI
