Shah Abdul Karim


Shah Abdul Karim was a Bangladeshi Baul musician. He was awarded the Ekushey Padak in 2001 by the Government of Bangladesh. Some of his notable songs include Keno Piriti Baraila Re Bondhu, Murshid Dhono He Kemone Chinibo Tomare, Nao Banailo Banailo Re Kon Mestori, Ashi Bole Gelo Bondhu and Mon Mojale Ore Bawla Gaan. He referred to his compositions as Baul Gaan. He is widely regarded as one of the greatest Bengali musicians
And considered as greatest Baul musician. He is popularly referred as Baul Saamrat.

Early life

Karim was born on 15 February 1916 in Derai Thana, in Sylhet. He first learnt music from Baul Shah Ibrahim Mastan Baksh. In 1957, Karim had started living in Ujan Dhol, a village near his home, with his wife, Sarala Bibi.

Personal life

Karim had a son named Shah Nur Jalal.
Karim died in Sylhet on 12 September 2009 due to respiratory problems.

Works

Karim wrote and composed over 1600 songs. The Bangla Academy has translated ten of his songs into the English language.
Karim's songs are organized in six books: