Sabina Yasmin and Moushumi Bhowmik to headline London festival

Two of the subcontinent's most beloved voices, legendary songstresses Sabina Yasmin from Bangladesh and Moushumi Bhowmik from West Bengal, are set to share the same stage in London this month.

The singers will perform on October 19 at a special music segment of the London Bangla Book Fair and Cultural Festival, to be held at the Mayfair Venue in Romford, East London. Organised by Udichi's UK chapter in collaboration with several local cultural organisations, the festival marks its 16th edition this year.

The day-long event will feature book launches, poetry recitations, and children's performances from noon to 5:30pm, followed by the much-anticipated concert from 6:30pm to 10pm. 

Yasmin will perform some of her most popular songs, accompanied by musicians from both Bangladesh and the UK. Joining her from Dhaka are Chandan Dutta and Monowar Hossain Tutul. Bhowmik, known for her soulful compositions and poetic lyricism, will also present a selection of her signature numbers.

Photo: Collected

Speaking before her departure for London, Yasmin said, "When I perform abroad, it feels as if a piece of Bangladesh stands before me. The audience sings with such emotion and love for our songs, it fills me with pride. I'll try, as always, to win the hearts of my brothers and sisters overseas."

Sabina Yasmin will leave Dhaka for London today and is expected to return on October 25 after the performance.

Organisers say the festival aims to celebrate Bangla literature, music, and culture beyond borders — with this year's concert promising to be one of its most memorable evenings yet.