For decades, political tensions shaped the narrative between the two nations. However, recent developments suggest a gradual softening of ties, with increasing engagement in trade, diplomacy and people-to-people contact. Observers believe this shift could also reopen doors for cultural cooperation, particularly in music and entertainment sectors historically shaped by shared artistic heritage.
Pakistan’s entertainment history reflects the significant contribution of Bengali artists, many of whom played a defining role in shaping the country’s music and film industries. Names such as Shabnam, Robin Ghosh, Alamgir, Shehnaz Begum and Hassan Jahangir continue to symbolise a shared cultural legacy that transcends borders.
Singer Hassan Jahangir, widely known for his global hit Hawa Hawa, traces his roots to Bengal, while actress Shabnam appeared in more than 150 Pakistani films. Composer Robin Ghosh, another prominent Bengali artist, left a lasting imprint through iconic film music that remains popular decades later.
Similarly, Shehnaz Begum, known for patriotic songs such as Sohni Dharti Allah Rakhe and Jeevay Jeevay Pakistan, and pop singer Alamgir, famous for songs including Maaon Ki Dua, Tum Hi Se Ae Mujahido and Khayaal Rakhna, represent an era when Bengali artists were deeply integrated into Pakistan’s cultural landscape.
Speaking to The Express Tribune, veteran singer Alamgir said he had always hoped for improved relations between Pakistan and Bangladesh.
“I fell in love with Pakistan. I was born here, but being Bangladeshi, I cannot deny that identity either,” he said. “It was my dream that Pakistan and Bangladesh would become friends again. I never imagined I would see this in my lifetime.”
Reflecting on music collaborations, Alamgir emphasised the unifying power of music. “Music is essentially the same; only the language changes. Pakistan itself has many languages and cultures. There are differences, but we were once brothers and we remain so,” he said.
He added that cultural connections could help sustain long-term goodwill between the two nations. “We went through difficult times, but gradually hearts softened and circumstances changed. Meeting again was both important and necessary.”
Commenting on emerging talent, Alamgir said platforms like Pakistan Idol play an essential role in discovering singers from smaller cities and rural areas. “When I started singing in the early 1970s, there were many talented people who never got the opportunity to come forward. Today, I see young singers who are even better than us,” he said.
Artists visiting from Bangladesh have also echoed similar sentiments. Humaira Bashir and Raja Bashir, children of renowned Bengali singer Bashir Ahmed, who lent his voice to classic Pakistani film songs such as Yeh Mausam Yeh Mast Nazare and Gulshan Mein Baharon Mein recently visited Karachi, where a reception was organised in their honour at the Karachi Press Club.
Humaira Bashir described music as a force beyond borders. “Air has no borders, birds have no borders, and neither does music,” she said. “Music will continue regardless of boundaries.”
Raja Bashir added that cultural differences between the two countries are minimal. “Music connects us. It does not matter where you perform.