I was rehearsing the songs of the film The Rain (1976), directed by S M Shafi. Alauddin Ali was assisting music director Anwar Parvez for the project, when we first met. I worked with him for the first time in Kolkata in the 80s, on an album produced under the banner of HMV. Numerous hits came out of that album, including Shukh Re Tui Ar Koto Kal, Janigo Phurabe Raat, Chole Gechho Tumi, and Barir Manush Koy Amay, among others.

He was a master of his craft. Bondhu Tin Din, considered one of his most popular songs, resonated with Bengali and Indian audiences all over the world. Buke Amar Agun Joley, which we recorded in the early days, is a fan favourite till date. In the later years, we did numerous albums and film songs together, most of which are still adored by listeners. The beautifully melodious song, Amay Genthe Daona Mago Ekta Polash Phuler Mala, created history. It is my most favourite number that we worked on together.

Around two years ago when his condition was a bit stable, he came to my house and we had long conversations about our old memories. I went to see Alauddin Ali when he was admitted at the Aysha Memorial Hospital.  He could recognise me, but couldn't talk. That was the last time I saw him. I will miss him dearly.