In a world where traditional music often takes a backseat to modern genres, one artist is on a mission to preserve and promote the rich heritage of Bengali folk music.
Popy Kar, a passionate folk singer, has not only mesmerized audiences with her soulful voice but has also dedicated her life to ensuring that the traditional melodies of Bengal transcend borders.
Born into a culturally rich and musically inclined family, Popy Kar’s connection with music was almost instinctive.
From an early age, she found solace and purpose in folk melodies, considering music her meditation and ultimate form of knowledge. Her musical journey began with the prestigious National Children`s Award, marking the start of an illustrious career that has since spanned decades.
She quickly gained prominence, performing regularly on Bangladesh Betar and Bangladesh Television, where her voice became synonymous with the nostalgia and depth of folk traditions.
Beyond singing, she lent her talents as an announcer and theatre artist, further enriching the cultural landscape of Bangladesh. Her collaborations with renowned artists across Bangladesh, Kolkata, and England have solidified her reputation as a bridge between Bengali folk music and the wider world.
Popy’s thirst for musical knowledge led her to pursue formal education in the field. After completing a post-graduation in law in 2018, her love for folk music took her to Kolkata, where she received the prestigious ICCR scholarship. She pursued her second post-graduation in folk music at the renowned Rabindra Bharati University, securing first-class first honors.
Her research paper, titled “Baul Darshane Marami Geeti Kabi Baul Samrat Shah Abdul Karim,” reflected her deep understanding of the philosophical and lyrical essence of Bengali folk traditions.
Her commitment to promoting folk music is not just academic—it is a mission that has taken her across the globe. She has performed at international events, including the ICCR-organized “Epar Opar” program in Kolkata, where she showcased a seamless blend of Bangladeshi and West Bengali folk music. Now based in London, she continues her research in folk music while also expanding her artistic repertoire through higher education in filmmaking with a specialization in sound design.
A visionary in her field, Popy Kar founded PK Music School to foster a love for Bengali music among the diaspora. “My goal is to inspire the next generation of singers and keep our rich heritage alive,” she explains. Through her school, she provides young musicians with training in folk music, ensuring that the melodies of Bangladesh continue to thrive among future generations.
Beyond teaching, Popy has an extensive performance career, captivating audiences at various international and national events. Her work in journalism, as a former news anchor for NTV Europe and a journalist for ATN Bangla UK, has further broadened her platform, allowing her to bring greater attention to Bengali culture.
Recently, her songs have been released on the OTT platform PK Music School and her official YouTube channel, gaining traction among folk music enthusiasts. With new projects in the pipeline, Popy Kar’s contributions to Bengali folk music are set to reach even greater heights.
Her dedication to folk music in foreign lands is not just a personal pursuit—it is a cultural movement. Through her voice, research, and education initiatives, Popy Kar is ensuring that the soul-stirring melodies of Bengali folk music continue to echo across the world, touching hearts and preserving a timeless tradition for generations to come.
