Entertainment Desk:

Channel i is set to air a nearly three-hour tribute programme titled “Jui Phool: Sabina Yasmin” on September 5 at 2:40pm, to celebrtate the 55-year journey of one of Bangladesh’s most iconic voices. The programme takes its name from the singer herself: Sabina means “Jui”.The special feature, which will run for two hours and forty-eight minutes, consists of performances from well-known singers and candid reflections of Sabina Yasmin’s life and music.

Filmed across three locations—Thikana Resort, Channel i’s studio, and the singer’s own residence—the production added together two parts: a music showcase featuring her most beloved songs and a personal interview where Yasmin revisited the milestones of her career.

Director Shykh Seraj talked about her dedication: “Sabina apa was physically unwell. Yet, the second the camera was on, her face lit up with a smile. Without her excitement and cooperation, I wouldn’t be able to make this show complete.”

The programme also featured appearances by celebrated actresses Farida Akhtar Babita, Kabori Sarwar, Shujata, and Rozina, who shared their memories of Yasmin. Shujata recalled first seeing her as a child: “She was only wearing a frock; I was surprised to find out that she was going to sing.”

Yasmin also revealed little-known anecdotes. Her birth certificate had the name Dilshad Yasmin, but the world came to know her as Sabina only after her breakout song “Shudhu Gaan Geye Porichoy.” Actress Kabori admitted she initially disliked one of Yasmin’s songs, “She Je Keno Elona”. The singer also talked about her international encounters, including her meeting with Lata Mangeshkar and the moment Raj Kapoor famously described her as “Awazo ki Devi” — Goddess of Voice.

Beyond nostalgia, the singer did not shy away from addressing industry issues. She raised the issue of Bangladeshi singers not getting royalties for their music. “Because of it, many suffer financially. If this existed, a lot of talented singers would not have to suffer in their later years,” she said, urging reforms on behalf of her fellow musicians.

The musical segment was carried by seven contemporary singers — Dilshad Nahar Kona, Somnur Monir Konal, Imran Mahmudul, Atiya Anisha, Rakiba Oyshi, Sania Sultana Liza, and Zanita Ahmed Zhilik — who performed twelve of Yasmin’s personal favourites. Their renditions of classics like “Shudhu Gaan Geye Porichoy”, “Eki Shonar Aloy”, “Ei Prithibir Pore”, “Shoto Jonomer Shopno,” “Cherona Cherona Haat”, “Ei Mon Tomake Dilam” paid homage to the singer’s rich musical footprint.

Shykh Seraj described both the motivation and challenges behind the project. “Many artists of earlier generations are slipping out of public view. Their work carries immense archival value, and it is our responsibility to preserve it. That is why I continue such efforts,” he said.

For Sabina Yasmin, the experience was equally rewarding. “I am speechless at how the show turned out. There was not a single moment where it was boring.”