Biography of Kanak Chapa

Early Life and Education

Rumana Morshed Kanak Chapa was born on September 11, 1969, in Dhaka, Bangladesh, to Azizul Huque Morshed and Momena Jahan. She is the third among five siblings. Her father, an amateur singer and painter, provided her with initial music lessons, fostering her early interest in music. Kanak Chapa completed her schooling at Madartek Abdul Aziz High School and later attended Viqarunnisa Noon School and College for her Higher Secondary Certificate (HSC).

Musical Training and Early Career

From a young age, Kanak Chapa exhibited a profound passion for music. She received formal training under the guidance of Ustad Basir Ahmed for 12 years, which significantly honed her vocal skills. In 1978, she made her television debut and won the championship in the “Notun Kuri” competition. She also secured the championship in the “Jatiyo Shishu Protijogita” for three consecutive years.

Professional Achievements

Kanak Chapa’s illustrious career spans playback singing, modern, folk, and Nazrul Geeti. She has recorded over 3,500 songs and released more than 30 solo albums, many of which remain popular. Her exceptional talent has earned her numerous accolades, including the Bangladesh National Film Award for Best Female Playback Singer in 1995, 2001, and 2008. She is one of the only three female singers to win multiple National Film Awards, alongside Sabina Yasmin and Runa Laila.

Literary Contributions

Beyond her musical career, Kanak Chapa is an accomplished writer. She has authored several books, including her autobiography “Sthobir Jajabor” in 2011 and a poetry book “Mukhomukhi Joddha” in 2012. In 2020, she published a two-volume autobiography titled “Boikata Ghuri: Kataghuri 1” and “Boikata Ghuri: Kataghuri 2.” Her writings reflect her deep connection with her culture and her passion for the arts.

Personal Life

Kanak Chapa married music director and composer Moinul Islam Khan in 1984. Together, they have two children: a son, Faizul Islam Khan, and a daughter, Faria Islam Khan. Both children are trained singers and actively practice music.

Social Engagement

Kanak Chapa is actively involved in social organizations such as “Potho Shishuder Chayatol,” “Amra Khati Gorib,” and “Matrisodon.” She has been running an online school named “Amader Khelaghor School” for about eight years, demonstrating her commitment to education and social welfare.

Awards and Recognition

Throughout her career, Kanak Chapa has received numerous awards, including:

• **Bangladesh National Film Awards**: Best Female Playback Singer for “Love Story” (1995), “Premer Taj Mahal” (2001), and “Ek Takar Bou” (2008).
• **Meril Prothom Alo Awards**: Best Singer (Female) in 1999, 2000, 2001, and 2002.
• **Bachsas Awards**: Best Singer (Female) in 1999, 2000, 2001, and 2008.
• **Ifad Film Club Award**: Best Singer (Female) in 2012.

Legacy

Kanak Chapa’s influence in Bangladesh’s entertainment industry is immeasurable. Her dedication to both music and literature has earned her a special place in the hearts of people across the country. She remains an iconic figure in the cultural landscape, a symbol of artistic excellence, and a source of inspiration for aspiring singers and writers alike.