I have to stay well for Nibir: Kumar Bishwajit

S
Shah Alam Shazu

Kumar Bishwajit has enjoyed a long and illustrious career in music. Through his quality work, he has carved out a unique place for himself in the country’s music scene. Several of his songs have become household favourites, earning him the reputation of an evergreen singer. He has received numerous accolades at home and abroad, including the National Film Award on multiple occasions.

For quite some time, Kumar has been staying in Canada for his only son Nibir’s treatment. Even while living there, however, he has remained closely connected to music.

Kumar Bishwajit recently spoke to The Daily Star about his life in Canada, music and other aspects of his career.

Asked how he is doing in Canada, Kumar said, “I have to stay well for Nibir. By the grace of the Almighty, I am doing well. Nibir is gradually recovering, although it will take more time. Still, I am deeply grateful to the Almighty for everything.”

He added, “I also want to express my love and gratitude to the people of my country. They have prayed for Nibir wholeheartedly and continue to keep him in their prayers. Countless people from different countries, beyond our borders, have also prayed for my son. I am grateful for their love.”

When the conversation turned to music, Kumar said, “Music is my lifeline. Music is everything to me. I have spent my entire life with music, and I want to spend the rest of my journey with it too. They say oxygen is essential for survival. Music is the same for me.”

A few years ago, Kumar’s only son Nibir was involved in a road accident in Canada. Since then, the singer has been staying there. Despite the circumstances, he has continued performing live. He has performed at several shows in Canada, as well as in Australia and the United States.

“I have performed at four shows in Canada and received an overwhelming response. I have received so much love from people. I also received tremendous response from audiences in Australia and the United States. At one of the shows, there were also audience members from Kolkata, and they praised my performances immensely,” said Kumar.

Asked whether he plans to continue performing, he said, “I want to keep singing this way. I want to remain connected to music while receiving people’s love. Most importantly, I am endlessly grateful to the Almighty that I am still able to sing.”

Asked about songs such as “Tore Putuler Moto Kore Sajiye” and several other tracks that remain popular and have stood the test of time, Kumar said, “Generation after generation is listening to these songs. Many people still sing them. Wherever I perform, audiences request these songs. They want to hear many of my other songs as well. I receive requests for such songs everywhere I perform. That is a tremendous achievement for me.”

He added, “As an artiste, there can be no greater achievement than receiving people’s love. For any artiste, this love is the greatest reward.”