Ajit Roy (born on June 29, 1938 – died on September 4, 2011), a towering figure in the music world of Bangladesh, was not just a celebrated singer, composer, and music director but also a key organizer of the Bangladesh Liberation War’s Radio Station, “Swadhin Bangla Betar Kendra.” His legacy is deeply intertwined with the cultural fabric of the nation, and his contributions to Bengali music, particularly during the 1971 Liberation War, cemented his place as a cultural hero.
Early Life and Education
Ajit Roy was born in the village of Sonalur Kuthi in Kurigram District, Bangladesh. His parents were Mukund Sarkar and Kanika Roy, who played a significant role in shaping his early interest in music. Ajit completed his matriculation in 1957 and went on to study at Carmichael College in Rangpur. It was during his youth that he began his musical journey, taking initial lessons in tabla playing while also being introduced to singing by his mother, Kanika Roy.
His passion for music grew stronger as he witnessed the intensity of the 1952 Language Movement, an event that deeply influenced his later works. This movement became a source of inspiration for many of his songs, infusing them with the spirit of resistance and nationalism.
Musical Training and Early Career
Ajit Roy’s formal musical training began with classical music, and he developed a deep understanding of the nuances of Hindustani classical music, tabla, and vocal techniques. His mother, a classical music enthusiast, was his first mentor. By 1963, Ajit began his career as a singer for the Bangladesh Radio (then East Pakistan Radio). His distinctive voice and style quickly gained recognition, and he started recording for radio programs, which helped him establish himself as a proficient and popular singer.
With the advent of television in Bangladesh, Ajit Roy also expanded his horizons, appearing on television shows and further enriching the musical landscape. He was particularly known for his patriotic songs, which resonated deeply with the public.
Contributions to Bengali Cinema
In addition to his work on radio and television, Ajit Roy also made significant contributions to Bengali cinema. He lent his voice to numerous iconic songs in films such as Reporter, Jibon Theke Neoya, Je Agune Puri, Jommbhumi, Kothay Keno Dekhechhi, and Koshai. His soulful voice added depth to these films, making them unforgettable to audiences.
Ajit Roy also had a brief acting stint in the film Suruj Mia, where he portrayed a significant character, demonstrating his versatility as an artist.
Role in the Liberation War: Swadhin Bangla Betar Kendra
One of Ajit Roy’s most significant contributions came during the Bangladesh Liberation War of 1971. As the war raged, the Swadhin Bangla Betar Kendra in Kolkata became the voice of the resistance, broadcasting songs and messages of patriotism and hope to the freedom fighters and civilians. Ajit, along with many other artists, played a pivotal role in these broadcasts.
His rendition of “Amar Sonar Bangla,” the national anthem of Bangladesh, written by Rabindranath Tagore, became a rallying cry for the liberation forces. He joined the Swadhin Bangla Betar Kendra in June 1971 and contributed to the station’s iconic programs that lifted the spirits of the masses. His famous songs like “Ekti Bangladesh Tumi Jagrata Janata,” “Opomane Tumi Sedin,” and “Ami Juge Juge Ashi” were sung in support of the freedom struggle, encouraging the people of Bangladesh to continue their fight for independence.
One of his most memorable works was the song “Swadhin Swadhin Dike Dike Aaj,” which he sang on the day of Bangladesh’s victory on December 16, 1971, after the country gained independence.
Post-War Contributions and Career
Following the independence of Bangladesh, Ajit Roy continued to contribute to the nation’s music scene. In 1972, he joined the Bangladesh Radio as a music director, and he remained in this position until his retirement in 1995. His work as a music director helped shape the musical programming of Bangladesh Radio, where he mentored and collaborated with several generations of artists.
Ajit Roy’s influence extended beyond Bangladesh’s borders as well. In 1987, he was invited to perform in Kolkata on the occasion of Rabindranath Tagore’s 125th birth anniversary. He also represented Bangladesh in several cultural delegations, performing in India, the Soviet Union, and other countries. His international tours helped introduce Bengali music to global audiences.
Family and Personal Life
Ajit Roy’s personal life was intertwined with his artistic journey. He married Bula Roy, and together they had two children—daughter Shreyashi Roy Mumum and son Romanch Roy. Despite his busy career, Ajit maintained a strong family bond and was deeply loved by his family and friends.
His mother, Kanika Roy, remained a significant influence in his life, instilling in him a love for classical music and the values of cultural preservation. The Roy family continued to be a source of pride for Bangladesh’s musical community.
Recognition and Awards
Ajit Roy’s contributions to music and his service to the country were widely recognized. In 2000, he was awarded the prestigious Independence Award, Bangladesh’s highest civilian honor. His work with the Swadhin Bangla Betar Kendra during the Liberation War also earned him the Shabdosainik Padak from the Swadhin Bangla Betar Kendra Artists Association.
Other awards include:
- Sequence Award (1988)
- Begum Rokeya Padak
- Rishij Shilpi Goshthi Padak
- Rabi Rashmi Padak
- Rabindra Puraskar in 2011
- Rabindra Sangeet Sammilan Parishad’s Guni Jan Padak
- Chittagong Youth Choir Award
These accolades reflect not only his excellence in music but also his immense contribution to the cultural and national identity of Bangladesh.
The Final Years and Death
Ajit Roy’s health began to decline in his later years, as he battled lung infections and other health issues. Despite his frail health, he continued to be an active presence in the cultural circles of Bangladesh until his passing on September 4, 2011, at the age of 73. He passed away at the BARDEM Hospital in Dhaka, leaving behind a void in the world of Bengali music.
On the day of his death, the people of Bangladesh and cultural personalities paid their respects at the Central Shaheed Minar in Dhaka. The tribute event, organized by the Sammilita Sanskritik Jote, was attended by a wide array of people, showcasing the profound impact Ajit Roy had on the nation’s cultural heritage. His funeral rites were performed at the Postogola Crematorium, where he was cremated with full honors.
Remembering Ajit Roy
Ajit Roy’s death left a deep sorrow in the hearts of his fans and colleagues. Cultural figures such as Tapan Mahmud, Fakir Alamgir, Rathindranath Roy, Rafiqul Alam, Sajeeda Chowdhury, Ramendu Majumdar, Asaduzzaman Noor, and Mohammad Golam Kuddus expressed their grief and paid tribute to the music legend.
Ajit Roy’s songs and music continue to resonate with the people of Bangladesh. His voice is still heard in the hearts of those who remember the brave fight for independence, and his compositions continue to inspire new generations of musicians and artists.
In conclusion, Ajit Roy’s legacy as a singer, composer, and freedom fighter remains unparalleled in the history of Bangladesh’s music scene. His works continue to serve as a symbol of resilience, patriotism, and cultural pride. Through his melodies, Ajit Roy not only captured the spirit of his time but also shaped the future of Bengali music. His contributions to the cultural fabric of Bangladesh will never be forgotten, and his influence will continue to inspire for generations to come.
