Ekushey Padak recipient musician Sheikh Sadi Khan turns 70 today. Known for composing music for over 8000 songs and working as a music director in more than 105 films, the National Film Award winner intends to celebrate the day in a homely manner at his residence.

Embarking on a journey of music, Sheikh Sadi Khan composed music concurrently for films, radio and television. Prominent singers from home as well as celebrated Indian singers rendered songs composed by him.

About his birthday, Sheikh Sadi Khan said, “I am stepping into 70. Truly speaking, there’s a little chance to live for a long. Still so many dreams remain unfulfilled as well as some good works also yet to be done. But I don’t get a chance to complete these works. I have few wonderful plans undone. If I could accomplish these works, our music industry would have been enriched.”

Born in a family with a musical heritage, Sheikh Sadi Khan took lessons as a violinist from his elder brother Ustad Bahadur Hossain Khan in his childhood. Before the independence of Bangladesh, he joined the Pakistan Radio in 1965. His maiden music composition for the song titled ‘Ja Jarey Jarey Pakhi’ was rendered by singer Fouzia Khan (sister of Sabina Yasmin).

For the films ‘Ghani’ and ‘Bhalobashlei Ghar Badha Jayna’, he received the National Film Award for Best Music Director twice. The musician received the prestigious Ekushey Padak in 2018.

PHOTO COURTESY : ALIF HOSSAIN