Tribute to Runa Laila

Citibank NA, Bangladesh has celebrated the lifetime contributions of renowned artist Runa Laila through a programme, titled “Gaane Gaane Gunijon Songbordhona”.

Eminent singer Ferdausi Rahman and music director Emon Saha spoke about the acclaimed artist’s celebrated musical career at the event held at a city hotel on Saturday evening.

Former Bangladesh Bank governor Salehuddin Ahmed and Citibank NA country officer Rashed Maqsood presented Runa Laila with an honorary crest, self-portrait and a cheque for her outstanding contributions in enriching the cultural heritage of Bangladesh, said a press release on Sunday.

Runa Laila began her musical journey at a young age about 50 years back and some of the songs she sang have stood the test of time and are very popular among listeners.

To pay homage to Runa Laila, artist Konal graced the stage to regale the audience with an outstanding performance of some timeless classics of Runa Laila.

While giving her speech, Runa Laila sai, “I would like to thank Citibank for organizing this wonderful event, it feels like a reunion of cultural-intellects.”

Regarding this year’s programme, Rashed Maqsood said, “We are proud to have the privilege to honor renowned artist Runa Laila. With her melodious voice, she has made noteworthy contributions to the promotion of Bengali music throughout the subcontinent.”

Since the 1st “Gaane Gaane Gunijon Songbordhona” in 2004, Citibank NA, has honored artists Nilufar Yasmin, Farida Parveen, Feroza Begum, Sanjida Khatun, Shorab Hossain, Ferdousi Rahman, Sabina Yasmin, Rezwana Choudhury Bannya, Subir Nandi, Shahnaz Rahmatullah, Syed Abdul Hadi and Mitali Mukherjee for their outstanding contribution to Bangla music and culture.