In recognition of outstanding contributions to the nation, the government has nominated nine distinguished individuals and one institution for the 2026 edition of the coveted Ekushey Padak, one of Bangladesh’s highest civilian honours. The announcement was made at a press briefing following the Advisory Council meeting at the Foreign Service Academy in Dhaka on Thursday.
In the cultural arena, veteran actress Farida Akhtar Babita, legendary late musician Ayub Bachchu, folk singer Islam Uddin Palakar, and pioneering rock band Warfaze have been selected for the prestigious award.
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Babita has appeared in several critically acclaimed films, including "Ashani Sanket", "Golapi Ekhon Traine", and "Alor Michil", earning recognition both domestically and internationally. Collaborations with filmmakers Satyajit Ray and Zahir Raihan cemented her status as one of Bangladesh’s most accomplished screen actresses. Over her career, she has won multiple National Film Awards and was honoured with the Lifetime Achievement Award.
The late Ayub Bachchu is remembered as a trailblazer of modern Bangla rock. As founder and frontman of LRB, he produced timeless albums and chart-topping songs that became anthems of youth, love, and rebellion. Renowned for his songwriting and exceptional guitar skills, Bachchu remains widely regarded as one of the country’s finest guitarists.
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Warfaze, formed in 1984, is credited with introducing hard rock and heavy metal to Bangladesh. With a career spanning over four decades, the band shaped the country’s rock scene and inspired generations of musicians. Their iconic tracks—"Boshe Achi Eka", "Obak Bhalobasha", "Jibondhara", and "Oshamajik"—along with landmark albums such as "Warfaze" (1991), "Obak Bhalobasha" (1994), "Jibon Dhara" (1997), "Oshamajik" (1998), "Aalo" (2001), "Moharaj" (2003), and "Shotto" (2012), remain essential listening for Bangladeshi rock fans.
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Islam Uddin Palakar, a renowned folk singer, is celebrated for performing pala gaan, a traditional narrative form popular in the haor region. He formed his own troupe in 1989 and became widely known for performances including "Komola Rani Sagar Dighi", "Jahangir Badsha", "Motilal", and "Rupkumar". Recently, he reached a new generation of listeners through Coke Studio Bangla with the song "Deora".
Beyond entertainment, the government recognised sculpture artist Tejosh Halder Josh and acclaimed dance artiste Arthy Ahmed for their contributions to the arts, further highlighting the breadth of talent shaping Bangladesh’s cultural landscape today.
