DHAKA, July 24, 2021 (BSS)- State Minister for Youth and Sports Mohammad Zahid Ahsan Russel expressed deep shock and sorrow at the death of Ekushey Padak winning noted folk singer Fakir Alamgir.

In a condolence message, the state minister said Fakir Alamgir was a renowned musician of Bangladesh who inspired the common people in all the historical movements of the country with his songs.

Fakir Alamgir, who emerged as Gono Sangeet (the songs of the masses) singer for his outstanding contributions to inspiring the people to join the country's 1971 Liberation War, passed away around 10.56 pm on Friday night while undergoing treatment at Intensive Care Unit (ICU) of the United Hospital in the city at the age of 71.

He is survived by his wife, three sons and a host of relatives and well-wishers.

As a member of ‘Kranti Shilpi Gosthi’ and ‘Gono Shilpi Gosthi’, he was involved in various national movements and struggles in the sixties with his songs.

“The death of this legendary artist is an irreparable loss for the country’s folk music arena, which is by no means to be met,” Russel said, adding that the people will always remember his contribution in the world of music.

He also prayed for eternal peace of the departed soul and conveyed deep sympathy to the bereaved family.

Born in Faridpur, the prominent singer Fakir Alamgir started his music career in 1966 and played a vital role as a singer in 1969 uprising in the then East Pakistan.

He worked with Swadhin Bangla Betar Kendra during the Liberation War and founded the cultural organisation "Wrishiz Shilpi Gosthi" in 1976. He also served as the president of Gono Sangeet Shamanya Parishad (GSSP).

The noted singer was awarded different awards including Ekushey Padak, Bhashani Padak and Sequence Award of Honour.