DHAKA : The first death anniversary of `Baul Samrat` Shah Abdul Karim, whose folk-songs have an appeal for all generations, was observed Sunday.

The legendary folk-artiste died of old-age complications at a Sylhet hospital on September 12 last year.

Abdul Karim was born in 1916 at Ujandhol in Dirai upazila of Sunamganj district.

Growing up with poverty and hardship, he started expressing his thoughts and emotions musically from a very early age.

His folk-songs are widely recognized and valued by people of all generations. Even the younger generation living in urban areas loves Karim’s songs.

Baul Shah Abdul Karim wrote and composed over 1,500 songs. He had published six books-- Aftab Sangeet, Gano Sangeet, Kalnir Dheu, Dolmela, Bhatir Chithi and Kalnir Kooley. Bangla Academy translated 10 of his songs into the English language.

Some of Karim’s most famous musical numbers include Agey ki shundor din kataitham, Gari cholena cholena, Kano piritee barailarey bondhu, Maiya lagaise, Ami koolhara kolonkini,

He was awarded Ekushey Padok in 2001 for his outstanding musical achievements and Kotha-sahityk Abdur Rouf Choudhury Award in 2000.

BDST : 1341 HRS, SEP 12, 2010