Renowned Baul artist Sunil Karmakar, aged 66, passed away early Friday at Mymensingh Medical College Hospital following a period of treatment. Survived by his wife, two sons, and a widespread following in the folk music community, Karmakar’s musical journey began in 1959 in Bandanal village, Netrokona.
Known for his powerful vocals and captivating performances, Karmakar was not only a singer but also a proficient instrumentalist skilled in various instruments like the ektara, dotara, violin, tabla, and harmonium. Influenced by the legendary Baul master Ustad Jalal Uddin Khan, Karmakar dedicated his life to folk and spiritual music, performing and composing numerous songs inspired by Khan’s legacy.
Throughout his career, Karmakar penned nearly 200 songs and used his music to convey spiritual messages and promote human values. His songs, accompanied by the rhythmic sounds of traditional instruments, delved into themes of humanism, life philosophy, devotion, and love for the divine.
One of his most acclaimed performances was his rendition of the classic Baul song “Manush Dhoro Manush Bhojo,” originally associated with Ustad Jalal Uddin Khan. Ayesh Uddin Bhuiyan, a member of the Kendua Jalal Parishad, hailed Karmakar as a devoted follower of the Jalal tradition and a timeless figure in the Baul community. His passing has left a deep sense of sorrow in Kendua and the broader Netrokona region.
