Oscar-winning musician AR Rahman joined the grand celebration, held on the occasion of the 50th independence anniversary of Bangladesh, at the National Parade Ground on March 26, and dedicated his performance to the Father of Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman.
The song, 'Bolo Joy Bangabandhu', was penned by National Award-winning lyricist Zulfiqar Russell.
Curtain lifted on the ten-day grand celebration titled 'Mujib Chiranton', and AR Rahman's composition was the final surprise of the night.
The song was played in presence of the Prime Ministers of Bangladesh and India. Lyricist Zulfiqer Russell attended the ceremony even though AR Rahman couldn't due to the Covid-19 restrictions.
This is the first time that world renowned musician AR Rahman composed a song for Bangladesh.
An overwhelmed Zulfiqer Russell said, "My words were uttered by A R Rahman in front of the two heads of states in such a big ceremony! Frankly, I am finding it hard to express my emotions in words."
The Hindi version of the song is currently making the rounds on all social media platforms and has earned praise for the Russell-Rahman duo.
The artistes will collaborate on another Bangla song, titled 'Aj O Shuni Borjodhoni' on the occassion of Bangabandhu's birth centenary, which will be unveiled in an upcoming national ceremony.
"Everyone knows that Rahman is a globally renowned musician; very well respected; one of our greatest living musicians. But I was more taken aback by his modesty. He is a very down to earth person and I learned a lot from him," Russell said.
Zulfiqer Russell also penned the theme song of the 50th independence anniversary ceremony.
