Bengali music is based on a very long tradition of religious and secular song-writing and it spans a wide variety of styles. We were fortunate to experience several music demonstrations and we even had a Rotarian serenade us with his bamboo flute.
I found the traditional musical instruments to be most intriguing. They are so vital to the unique sounds of Bengali music. As well as the bamboo flute, the harmonium (a reed organ similar to an accordion), tabla (hand drums), and the ektara and dotara (single and double - stringed lutes) added haunting and delightful sounds to the vocals.
Combine this music with traditional dance, colourful saris and beautiful talented girls and you have an unforgettable experience.
It seemed there was always music somewhere - the jingling bells on the rickshaws, the call to prayer from the mosques, our groups singing in the van. And then, of course, the sound of excited children laughing and playing. This was the best music of all!
Team Bangladesh, 2024
Rotary Club of Dhaka 🇧🇩 and SCAW 🇨🇦