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Bengal Music released two brand new albums. In addition, almost all the listeners believed that it was not just a regular release. It was a cautionary signal to all others who are producing and releasing below standard albums. It was a wake up call to those conventional moneymaking producers to bring out creative albums with soulful lyrics and tasteful tunes.
   The event released compilations of Kazi Krishnakali Islam titled ‘Shurje Badhi Basha’ and Tanveer Alam Shajib’s ‘Bari Kothay Balo’ at Hotel Abakash on Sunday.
   The name Krishnakali immediately reminded me of the song Krishnokoli ami tarey boli…. Not only did she have the charm of the imaginary belle in that ballad but also her deep and atmospheric vocals captured the very essence of rivers of rhythm - an ambience of fulfilment.
   When she performed her first track singing Aaj jhor bhalobasha, anande bheshe jawa....Dubi Dubi, bheshe uthi from the album, live for the invited guests; for many, it was that sinking feeling! Moreover, she was easily labelled as a stand-alone singer - one whose vocals complements the instrumentation rather than vice versa.
   Her mesmerising performance of the track ‘Hatath rod’ was not only very humble but the lyric was so moving that it literally released bursts of ecstatic feelings.
   Professor Doctor Liaquat Ali, speaking on the occasion described Krishnakali’s songs rich in well-crafted lyrics, magnetic vocal tunes, and elegant composition. He recalled the memory of being deeply moved the first time listening to the songs.
   Next on-stage was Shajib with his debut album. His performance was as hugely applauded. The song Palabi Pala’s live performance was so enjoyable that it reminded the listeners of the famous drama artiste Shankar Shawjal’s comment about Shajib – his songs seeks original roots and depicts true cultural tradition.

To celebrate the Pahela Baishakh, the first day of the Bangla calendar, Nokia held a ‘Nokia Baishakhi Utshab’ near the Apaorajeo Bangla on the premises of the Dhaka University campus.
   The event titled ‘Antare bahire banglar sur ’was a fusion of traditional cultural activities with modern technology and style. Baul singers including Ranjit Das, Mamtaz Dasi, Akbar AU Shah and Bristi rendered songs. Besides, Rinku and Beauty also rendered some soulful baul folk numbers.
   The highlight of the evening was a fashion show. The audience was handed out traditionally crafted Nokia branded hand fans as souvenirs.

The Dhaka University Film Society will arrange a two-day film screening at the Russian Centre of Science and Culture at Dhanmondi in the city. The screening will kick off on April 17.
   Professor AAMS Arefin Siddique, moderator of the Dhaka University Film Society will be present as chief guest and Yuri I Makarow, director of the Russian Centre of Science and Culture will be present as special guest.
   On the inaugural day, the organisers will screen ‘Nanuk of the North’, directed by Robert Flaherty of the USA at 3:00pm. The screening will be followed by a discussion session and slide show.
   ‘Passion of Joan Ark’, directed by Karl Drayer of France, will be screened at 6:30pm on the same day.
   On April 18, ‘Pick Pocket’, directed by Robert Bresson of France will be screened at 3:00pm, to be followed by the film ‘Ardrey Rubeluov’, directed by Andrey Tarkovosky of Russia at 5:00pm.