Celebrated Pakistani singer Rahat Fateh Ali Khan has arrived in Dhaka to headline the "Echoes of Revolution" concert, an event aimed at supporting the victims and families affected by the July uprising.
The concert will take place tonight at the Army Stadium in the capital.
Rahat, known for his iconic hits such as "Afreen Afreen," "O Re Piya," "Jiya Dhadak Dhadak," and "Dil Ka Mizaaj Ishqiya," landed at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport around midnight.
Upon his arrival, a group of Dhaka University students welcomed him with flowers. The legendary artist is currently staying at a five-star hotel in Dhaka.
The "Echoes of Revolution" concert is organized by the Spirits of July platform and will also feature prominent Bangladeshi bands and artists, including Artcell, Chirkutt, Aftermath, and members of Silsila, alongside rappers Shezan and Hannan, who rose to fame during the July Uprising.
In a show of solidarity, Rahat Fateh Ali Khan has waived his performance fee for the event. The proceeds from ticket sales will be donated to the Shaheed July Smriti Foundation, which provides support to those injured or killed in the uprising.
Several unique measures have been taken to facilitate the event. The National Board of Revenue (NBR) issued a special order exempting the concert from value-added tax (VAT) and supplementary duty.
Besides, the Dhaka Elevated Expressway authorities announced that no tolls would be collected from vehicles on the day of the concert. The Bangladesh Army has also waived the venue rent for the Army Stadium.
Concert tickets were sold in three categories: VIP (10,000 BDT), Front Row (4,500 BDT), and General (2,500 BDT), with discounted prices available for students across all categories.
The event promises more than just musical performances. It will include a graffiti exhibition themed around the July Revolution, a stage play, and a ‘Mugdho Water Zone’ in honor of Mir Mugdho, a martyr of the July Uprising. Prime Bank is the title sponsor of the event.
BDST: 1533 HRS, DEC 21, 2024
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