The Amazing Music of Yaatri
The popular Bangladeshi two-man band, Yaatri, has had resounding success with their debut album, “Daak”, which quickly climbed to the number one spot on the music charts of Bangladesh. Their music has been described as “overwhelmingly fresh”, reflecting elements of everyday life that are easy for listeners to relate to.
Features - Editor - 15 July 2008
Bhatiali – Music of the River Communities
What makes folk music different to other forms of music is the fact that its sound has not been influenced by modern or classical music. Folk songs have been performed by rural communities and have been produced by the spontaneous outpouring of expressions and emotions. They are songs that tell the tales of daily difficulties and joys experienced by the tribe or community. Bhatiali folk music in Bangladesh is the music of the fishermen and communities that live along the rivers of Bangladesh.
Features - Editor - 17 June 2008
Chakma – An Ancient Tribe in a Modern World
The Chakma tribe, also known as Changmas, are considered to be the largest tribe occupying the Chittagong Hill Tracts region of Bangladesh, as well as in India, where they have been settled for many generations. They have their own unique historical traditions, culture, folklore and language of Eastern Indo-Aryian origin, with the vast majority of Chakmas being followers of the Hinayana sect of Theravada Buddhism. Traditionally ruled by a king, these days the position of Chakma king – currently Devasish Roy - is more of a symbolic nature.
