A matter of burgeoning pride

In our sub-continent, Kolkata is a special place. The critics of Kolkata in the field of Bangla culture and music are revered by every professional in the field. Even when I was only a child, I knew that artists who have performed in Kolkata and have been praised by the critics there are a league apart, and that is how they would be treated from then onward, with a different level of respect and admiration. Kolkata's critics are respected because their knowledge is profound, and their insights have depth. But there was one very bizarre (and allegedly intentional) mistake that would be repeated again and again, and this would really bother me on a personal level. Without fail, whenever a Bangladeshi artist was being critiqued for his or her performance, regardless of where the review is positive or negative, the artist's name would be spelled wrong! And would you believe it, this has also happened recently. One example that I can cite is Humayun Ahmed, whose name was misspelled in the very news of his death, published in newspapers of Kolkata. I find it very difficult to understand how people who write such good reviews can get the spellings of their subjects wrong! I visit Kolkata at least once a year. Seeing Rezwana Choudhury Bannya's name and pictures on billboards, posters and on television there really overwhelms me with pride. The best part though? They always spell her name right! The respect with which I see her being presented on the television channels of Kolkata and the millions of hearts she has won with her singing there is enviable. She really is a class apart. To lovers of Rabindra Sangeet, Bannya is a living legend – her skill and popularity is not restricted to where she comes from and where she performs, she belongs to the world now. This is a matter of great pride for every Bangladeshi. To those who know her on an individual level, she is not only a legendary singer, but an amazing person as well. She is always presentable and charming. How she speaks, how she carries herself and how her thoughts and philosophy coincide with Rabindranath Tagore is impossible to miss. I believe these are the reasons why she has become the icon she is today. If Rabindranath was alive today, I am sure he would have claimed her to be his protégé. We at Star Showbiz are pleased to present Rezwana Choudhury Bannya on today's cover, and will be looking forward to learning about her many future accomplishments!