Shafin Ahmed’s Final Journey: From US to Dhaka – Namaz-e-Janaza and Legacy
The music world is mourning the loss of Shafin Ahmed, the legendary Bangladeshi rockstar and former frontman of the iconic band Miles. Shafin Ahmed’s body arrived in Dhaka on Monday from the United States, marking the beginning of his final journey. His passing on July 25 in Virginia, due to heart and kidney failure, has shocked and saddened fans across Bangladesh.
Arrival and Funeral Arrangements
Shafin Ahmed’s remains were flown into Dhaka and landed at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport in the afternoon. The first namaz-e-janaza took place at Dar al Noor Islamic Community Mosque in Virginia, where family and friends gathered on Saturday. Today, his second janaza will be held at Gulshan Azad Mosque after Zuhr prayers.
Final Resting Place: Shafin Ahmed will be laid to rest at Banani Graveyard. His kulkhani (a post-funeral Islamic memorial service) is scheduled for next Friday, August 2, at Gulshan Community Mosque after Jumma prayers.
Hamin Ahmed, Shafin’s elder brother and leader of Miles, has urged the public to join in the namaz-e-janaza and kulkhani, asking everyone to pray for Shafin Ahmed’s soul.
A Look Back at Shafin Ahmed’s Legacy
Born on February 14, 1961, in Kolkata, India, to music legends Kamal Dasgupta and Feroza Begum, Shafin Ahmed was a key figure in shaping the music scene in Bangladesh. His contributions to Miles Band and his solo career have left an indelible mark on the country’s music industry.
Key Highlights of Shafin Ahmed’s Career:
- Early Days with Miles: Shafin Ahmed joined Miles in 1980, alongside Hamin Ahmed, and made significant contributions to the band’s early successes.
- Notable Albums: With Miles, Shafin was part of memorable albums like Miles (1982), A Step Further (1986), and Protishruti (1992). The song “Chand Tara,” from the album Protishruti, became an anthem across Bangladesh.
- Solo Ventures: Beyond Miles, Shafin Ahmed’s solo albums, including Tomakey (1987) and Virus (2006), showcased his versatility and cemented his status as a beloved artist in Bangladesh.
The Impact of Shafin Ahmed’s Music
Shafin Ahmed’s voice and songwriting shaped the sound of Bangladeshi rock. His collaborations with bandmates like Manam Ahmed led to hits such as “Phirye Dao” and “Dhikhi Dhikhi.” Despite creative differences, his role in the band remained influential, contributing to albums like Probaho (2000) and Proborton (2016).
In addition to his work with Miles, Shafin’s solo career featured hits like “Aj Jonmodin Tomar,” which became synonymous with birthday celebrations in Bangladesh. His solo albums, such as Kotodin Dekhina Tomay and Mone Pore Aj, further showcased his range and artistic talent.
Remembering a Music Icon
Shafin Ahmed’s passing is not just a personal loss for his family and fans but a significant moment for the Bangladeshi music industry. His contributions to music and his role in popularising rock in Bangladesh will be remembered for years to come.
As Dhaka prepares to pay its final respects to this iconic rockstar, fans and admirers are invited to attend the funeral services and kulkhani to honour his memory and celebrate his legacy.
Photo credit: New Age
