Jagannath University revives its music festival after six years
After a six-year hiatus, Jagannath University (JnU) brought back its music festival yesterday, blending celebration with a remembrance of a student in a vibrant daylong programme.
Organised by the Department of Music under the theme "promoting a healthy cultural spirit", the university's fourth music festival was dedicated to Prattasha Majumder, a beloved student of the department who recently passed away. The event took place at the Science Building premises.
For all latest news, follow The Daily Star's Google News channel. The day opened with a seminar titled "Comprehensive Sound Analysis: Music and Consciousness", where Assistant Professor Dr Ali F M Rezowan presented the keynote speech. Department Head Dr Jhumur Ahmed chaired the session, with Assistant Professor Md Mahmudul Hasan serving as moderator.
In the afternoon, participants observed a minute's silence to honour Prattasha before launching into the musical segment with performances titled "Dhonilo Ahobano" and "O Alor Pathajatri".
The festival featured a rich variety of performances by students and faculty, spanning Rabindra Sangeet, Nazrul Sangeet, patriotic songs, folk tunes, and classical music. Group performances of "Sagar Baul" and "Manush Bhajle Shonar Manush Hobi" drew warm applause from the audience.
Veteran singer Shaheen Samad was honoured during the festival, while noted artistes Khairul Anam Shakil, Laisa Ahmed Lisa, Priyanka Gope, and Sagar Dewan also took the stage, elevating the cultural experience.
Speaking at the event, JnU Vice Chancellor Prof Dr Md Rezwanul Karim said, "since July 2024, a free and creative environment has been flourishing in the country. through this festival, we hope to showcase our cultural wealth to the world."
He also reflected on Prattasha's untimely death, adding, "Her demise has deeply saddened us. it's a reminder to be more humane, but also not to let grief lead us astray."
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