Shaikh Shahed Ali, voice behind Rokzana, dead

Singer Shaikh Shahed Ali, best known for his popular song Rokzana and his contribution to Bangladesh’s band music scene, died at 10:05 am on Friday while undergoing treatment at Asgar Ali Hospital, Dhaka. He had been seriously ill for several days.

Ershadul Haque Tinku confirmed his death to the media.

Shahed was admitted to hospital on October 24 after his blood sodium levels dropped. During treatment, he suffered a mild stroke and also tested positive for dengue.

As his condition deteriorated, he was transferred to Square Hospital before being moved to Asgar Ali Hospital. He had also been undergoing regular dialysis for kidney complications for the past four years.

His illness had put on hold plans to release 24 songs developed over 11 years. The collection, which was scheduled for release on November 6, was to be available on CDs, cassettes and vinyl records.

A familiar name in Bangladesh’s band music scene since the 1990s, Shahed founded the band The Gach. He was known for songs including Rokzana, Upolobdhi, Khola Chul and Prem Ashbei.

His debut album, Probhu, was released in 1991.