Altaf Mahmud (1933-1971) was a renowned Bangladeshi musician and composer who made significant contributions to the development of the country’s music industry. He was born on December 23, 1933, in Mymensingh, which is now a part of Bangladesh.
Mahmud started his career as a music composer and arranger for radio programs. He later became associated with the film industry and composed music for numerous films. His compositions were greatly appreciated by the audience and earned him numerous accolades.
One of Mahmud’s notable contributions to Bangladeshi music is his use of traditional folk elements in his compositions, which helped to popularize and preserve the country’s cultural heritage. He was also known for his patriotic songs that reflected the spirit of the Bengali people during the turbulent times leading up to Bangladesh’s independence.
Mahmud’s most famous song is “Amar Bhaiyer Rokte Rangano,” which he composed during the Bangladesh Liberation War in 1971. The song became an instant hit and served as an anthem for the freedom fighters. It is still regarded as one of the most iconic songs in the history of Bangladeshi music.
Unfortunately, Mahmud’s promising career was cut short when he was brutally murdered by the Pakistan Army during the Liberation War. He was only 38 years old at the time of his death. Despite his untimely demise, his legacy lives on through his music, which continues to inspire and move people to this day.
In recognition of his contributions to Bangladeshi music, the government of Bangladesh awarded Mahmud the prestigious Ekushey Padak in 1978, a posthumous award given for his outstanding contributions to Bengali culture. He is remembered as one of the greatest musicians and composers in the country’s history.