Runa Laila spellbounds audience on her returns to Shilpakala after 62 years

Legendary singer Runa Laila made a memorable return to the stage of the Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy after more than six decades, captivating audiences with a heartfelt solo concert that blended nostalgia, timeless music and a humanitarian cause.

The special concert, titled "Shilpi Ami Tomaderi Gaan Shonabo" (I Am an Artist, I Will Sing for You), was organised to raise support for flood-affected communities across the country.

During the evening, the iconic vocalist also received a special honour from the Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy in recognition of her extraordinary contribution to music.

At 74, Runa Laila delivered 10 of her most celebrated songs, opening the performance with a patriotic number before taking the audience on a journey through some of the biggest hits of her illustrious career. Each performance was met with thunderous applause, with fans singing along and celebrating the enduring magic of one of South Asia's most beloved voices.

The concert marked the first-ever solo performance by Runa Laila in the 54-year history of the Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy. The legendary singer, however, noted that it had been nearly 62 years since she last performed on the academy's stage. Despite the long absence, her commanding stage presence and unmistakable voice left audiences spellbound throughout the evening.

The event was chaired by Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy Director General Rezauddin Stalin, while Culture Minister Nitai Roy Chowdhury attended as the chief guest. State Minister for Culture Ali Newaz Mahmud Khaiyam and Cultural Affairs Secretary Kaniz Fatema were present as special guests.

The programme was hosted by renowned actor and cultural personality Afzal Hossain.

The academy auditorium witnessed a packed house, with music lovers filling every seat and many gathering outside the venue. Waves of applause followed every performance, as audience members described the evening as a rare opportunity to relive the golden era of Bangla music. Many echoed the sentiment that "there is only one Runa Laila."

Widely regarded as one of South Asia's greatest musical icons, Runa Laila has enthralled generations with thousands of songs in Bangla, Hindi, Urdu and several other languages. Throughout her remarkable career spanning decades, she has received numerous national and international honours for her exceptional contribution to music, culture and humanitarian causes.