Runa Laila, a legendary singer of the subcontinent, celebrates her 60th year in music. The day marks a momentous occasion in the world of music as Runa Laila, the legendary singer of the subcontinent, celebrates 60 years of her illustrious career. Born on November 17, 1952, in Sylhet, Runa Laila's journey in music began early, shaped by a musically rich family background. Her father, Syed Mohammed Imdad Ali, was a civil servant, and her mother, Amina Laila, was a musical artist. Influenced by her maternal uncle, the renowned Indian playback singer Subir Sen, Runa Laila received training in Kathak and Bharatanatyam dance forms and classical music alongside her elder sister, Dina Laila.
Runa Laila's entry into playback singing was marked by the song “Gudiya Si Munni Meri Bhaiya Ki Pyari” in the 1964 joint Bangladesh-Pakistan movie “Jugnu,” at just 12 years old. Her sister, Dina Laila, also contributed to the movie's soundtrack. Following this, Runa Laila's voice graced numerous Pakistani films such as “Hum Dono,” “Rishta Hai Pyaar Ka,” and “Dil Aur Duniya,” solidifying her reputation as a prominent playback singer.
Before the Liberation War, Runa captivated Bengali audiences with her song “Ganeri Khatay Swarlipi Likhe” in the 1970 film “Swarlipi.” After relocating to Bangladesh in 1974, she continued to enchant listeners with performances in movies like “Jibon Sathi,” “Devdas,” and “Keyamat Theke Keyamat.” Her modern Bengali songs, including “Jokhon Thambe Kolahol” and “Khacha Bhenge Pakhi Uregelo,” remain beloved by fans.
Runa Laila's talent transcended borders, leading her to playback singing in Bollywood with films such as “Ek Se Badhkar Ek” and “Agneepath.” Her rendition of “Dama Dam Mast Qalandar” became iconic, often considered her signature song, demanded by audiences at every performance.
In 1982, Runa Laila collaborated with Indian composer Bappi Lahiri for the album “Super Runa,” featuring hits like “Suno Suno Meri Ye Kahani.” Her versatility further shone through in 2017 when she debuted as a music composer for the film “Ekte Cinemar Golpo,” winning the National Film Award for Best Composer.
Throughout her career, Runa Laila has sung in 18 languages, including Bengali, Hindi, Urdu, and English, showcasing her incredible versatility. Her contributions to music have earned her over 300 awards, including the prestigious Independence Day Award, the Bangladesh National Film Award for Best Female Playback Singer (seven times), and the Saigal Award in India.
Runa Laila's remarkable 60-year career continues to inspire and
entertain audiences worldwide. Her dedication and passion for music have made her a true icon of the subcontinent, and her legacy continues to thrive.
