Runa Laila: Music's Power to Heal Nations and Hearts

Runa Laila's journey in Hindi films began 50 years ago with the popular song "Kya programme hai aaj raat ka" from 'Ek Se Badhkar Ek' (1976). Despite the Mangeshkar sisters' dominance, the 23-year-old singer from Sylhet carved her own niche, captivating listeners with her versatile voice.

Over five decades, Indo-Bangladesh relations have seen ups and downs, yet Laila's music has remained a unifying element. She believes "Music transcends boundaries. It also heals in a lot of ways," a sentiment echoed when she received the Minar-e-Dilli award at the 15th Delhi International Film Festival.

Initially visiting India in 1974 for a cultural exchange, Laila's talent quickly gained recognition. Her career in Pakistani films, radio, and TV preceded her foray into Hindi cinema. Notable early successes included songs for 'Gharaonda' (1977), with a duet reaching No. 6 in Binaca Geetmala's annual rankings.

Despite fewer recording opportunities with some composers, Runa Laila experienced a resurgence in the 1980s with Bappi Lahiri's disco-infused tracks, like those on the 'Superuna' album (1982), reintroducing her to a new generation.

Her captivating performances, like "Dama Dam Mast Kalandar" in 2010, and her role as a judge on 'Sur Kshetra' further solidified her impact. A fan's testimony about her songs aiding recovery from depression highlights the profound personal connection her music fosters.

Receiving the Minar-e-Dilli award underscored Laila's vital contribution to strengthening India-Bangladesh ties through the universal language of music, proving its power to bridge divides.