Veteran actress Shabnam will receive a lifetime achievement honour at the Bashir Ahmad Sammanona 2026, which returns after a three-year break.
The ceremony will take place on November 18, marking the late singer Bashir Ahmad’s birth anniversary, at 4:00pm at the National Art Gallery of Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy in Segunbagicha, Dhaka.
Launched in 2019 by Bashir Ahmad’s children, singers Humaira Bashir and Raja Bashir, the honours aim to introduce his life and work to younger generations. Organised by Sargam Sound System, the event was held annually from 2019 to 2022.
Speaking about the recognition, Shabnam recalled her association with the singer.
“Bashir Ahmad sang in several films I acted in, and those songs became popular. I met him on several occasions in both Pakistan and Bangladesh. It feels good to be receiving an award established in his name,” she said.
Humaira and Raja described Shabnam as an inseparable part of the country’s cinema.
“Just as the history of Bangladeshi music cannot be written without our father, the history of Bangladeshi cinema cannot be written without Shabnam aunty,” they said.
“We are truly delighted to be able to present her with the lifetime achievement honour at the Bashir Ahmad Sammanona. Words cannot express how much this means to us. We are grateful for everyone’s wholehearted support in organising this event in our father’s name.”
Bashir Ahmad’s popular songs include “Onek Shadher Moyna Amar”, “Amake Porate Jodi Eto Lage Bhalo”, “Deko Na Amare Tumi”, “Ogo Priyotoma”, “Khuje Khuje Janam Gelo”, “Jare Jabi Jodi Ja” and “Sajani Go Bhalobeshe Eto Jwala Keno Bolo Na”.
