Twenty Years of Music on the FOBANA Stage

Kousholy Ema

There are certain stages in an artist's life where performing is more than simply singing—it becomes an emotional and spiritual experience. For me, the stage of the Federation of Bangladeshi Associations in North America (FOBANA) is one of those rare places.

My journey with FOBANA began in 2006 at the FOBANA Convention in Atlanta, Georgia. At the time, I had no idea that this single event would connect me with Bangladeshi communities across North America for the next two decades. I still vividly remember that first performance. As a relatively new artist, I stepped onto the stage with a mixture of nervousness and excitement, hoping only to share my music. The warmth and encouragement I received from the audience instantly erased all my anxiety.

Nearly twenty years have passed since that memorable beginning. During this time, I have had the privilege of performing at most FOBANA conventions held across North America. Whether singing the timeless songs of Lalon, traditional Bengali folk music, patriotic songs, or my own original compositions, every performance has become a treasured chapter of my artistic journey.

Standing on the FOBANA stage, I have done much more than perform. I have witnessed the deep emotional connection that Bangladeshi expatriates maintain with their homeland despite living thousands of miles away. Time and again, I have seen how Bengali language, music, and culture continue to unite generations of immigrants. There is no greater reward for an artist than hearing an elderly audience member say, "Your song reminded me of my village," or a young Bangladeshi-American tell me, "Your music has made me feel even closer to my roots."

To me, FOBANA is much more than a convention. It is a celebration of identity. It is where history, heritage, culture, and community come together under one roof. It is also where I came to realize that music carries a responsibility beyond entertainment—it preserves memories, strengthens cultural identity, and connects generations.

For many years, I dreamed of recording an original song dedicated to FOBANA. That dream grew stronger with every convention I attended. This year, it has finally become a reality.

I recently recorded a new song about the FOBANA Convention, featuring lyrics and composition by Chhabed Sathee. The chorus reflects everything FOBANA has meant to me throughout the years:

Itihash, Oitijjho, Shongskriti, Binodon
Khushite bhore probashider mon-pran,
Dukkho koshto bhule thaki moha milon melay,
Amader FOBANAy.

Those few lines capture the essence of my twenty-year journey. At every FOBANA Convention, I have watched people set aside the pressures and struggles of everyday life to celebrate their shared heritage. For a few precious days, everyone is united by one identity—we are Bangladeshis.

One of the defining moments of my musical career came in 2015, when I transformed legendary poet Helal Hafiz's iconic poem Nishiddho Shampadakiya (Forbidden Editorial) into a song. The unforgettable line, "Now is the finest time for those whose youth calls them to war," became one of the most meaningful performances of my life. That work remains a milestone in my artistic journey.

I believe this new song dedicated to FOBANA will become another milestone. It is not merely a song; it is a tribute to the spirit, unity, and cultural heritage of Bangladeshis living across North America.

My musical journey began in Bangladesh through performances on Bangladesh Betar (Radio Bangladesh) and Bangladesh Television (BTV). Later, I earned a Bachelor's degree in Folk Music from the Government Music College in Dhaka and a Master's degree in Bengali Literature from Lalmatia Women's College. These experiences have shaped my belief that music is not only an art form but also a powerful vehicle for social awareness, patriotism, humanity, and spiritual reflection.

As FOBANA celebrates its 40th anniversary, my greatest wish is to see this organization grow stronger, more united, and more inclusive. I hope future generations of Bangladeshi-Americans will remain deeply connected to their language, music, and cultural heritage.

If this new song can inspire even one expatriate to remember Bangladesh with renewed affection, or encourage one young person to embrace Bengali culture with greater pride, I will consider my efforts worthwhile.

For me, FOBANA is not simply a convention. It is twenty years of music, memories, friendship, and an enduring connection to my homeland.

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