Sixth volume on Gazi Mazharul Anwar to debut at Ekushey Boi Mela

A new volume exploring the stories behind some of Bangladesh’s most recognisable film and modern songs by celebrated lyricist Gazi Mazharul Anwar will be released on Amar Ekushey Boi Mela, publishers confirmed.

Titled “Alpo Kothar Golpo Gaan”, the book documents the creative background of selected lyrics written by Anwar, who is widely credited with composing more than 20,000 songs across film, patriotic, and contemporary Bangla music. Alongside songwriting, he built a prominent career as a filmmaker, producer, and composer, shaping several decades of Bangladesh’s popular culture.

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The book is being published by Dhaka-based publishing house Bhashachitra, headed by publisher Khandokar Monirul Islam. It is the sixth instalment in an ongoing series compiling Anwar’s writings and reflections on music and cinema.

According to the publisher, the volume revisits the post-independence evolution of Bangladesh’s film industry through the making of songs, tracing collaborations with leading singers, composers, music directors, filmmakers, and technicians of the period. The book also includes personal recollections from different stages of the lyricist’s life, offering insight into the cultural landscape that shaped his work.

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Anwar’s son, Sarfaraz Anwar Upol, said the publication is intended both as preservation and documentation.

“My father is no longer with us. Publishing this book is a way of preserving his songs,” he said. “It is also an initiative to share the stories behind many popular tracks with readers. For the past few years, a new volume has been released around his birthday, and this one will be available at the book fair.”

Anwar, who passed away on September 4, 2022, remains one of the most influential figures in Bangladeshi music and cinema. His lyrics — spanning patriotic anthems, film soundtracks, and modern songs — continue to circulate widely across generations of listeners.