Mahbubul Khalid`s song highlights the contributions of elders

The International Day of Older Persons is being observed today (October 1). The aim of the day is to spread awareness about the need for health provisions and social care for elderly.

On 14 December 1990, the United Nations General Assembly designated October 1 as the International Day of Older Persons. This year, the theme for the day is “Digital Equity for All Ages”. It affirms the need for access and meaningful participation in the digital world by older persons.

According to United Nations, by 2050, the world’s population aged 60 years and older will reach 2 billion, up from 900 million in 2015. Today, 125 million people are aged 80 years or older.

Covid-19 pandemic has especially been harsh for older people as being restricted to homes has affected their mental health as well as lack of regular check-ups might have aggravated some chronic conditions.

So in these circumstances, older persons need extra care, respect and love. Older people make major contributions to society, through their work, transmitting experience and knowledge, helping their families with caring responsibilities and participating in the paid labour force. The world should ensure that people can grow old with dignity and continue to participate in society as citizens with full rights.

Noted Bangladeshi poet, lyricist and composer Mahbubul Khalid has penned a song that highlights the contributions of elders and calls on young people to respect and honor the older persons. Late composer Ahmed Imtiaz Bulbul has tuned the song titled ‘Ohe Torun Probin' (Hey Young and Older Persons). Popular young singers Rafsan, Tina Mostary and Saran have rendered their voices to the song.

A music video of the song has been released on Mahbubul Khalid’s YouTube channel 'Khalid Sangeet'. Besides, the song has also been published on Mahbubul Khalid’s musical website ‘khalidsangeet.com’.

The song deals with the theme of paying due respect to elders. Those who are old today were also young one day. They were also famous for their talent, education and work. The elderly people are experienced in various subjects. Their knowledge and wisdom can guide young people to the right direction. The contribution of elders is a lot for the present generation. Now it is the turn of the youth to work for the elders. They must not forget that today's youth will one day grow old. So everyone should give due respect to the elderly people. These messages were conveyed in the song.

Mentionable, poet, lyricist and composer Mahbubul Khalid has penned and tuned a vast number of songs including various days or observance, popular and renowned personalities, social awareness etc. His recent song on Covid-19 pandemic titled 'Corona Ke Voy Koro Na' (Don't get panicked of Coronavirus) has been widely appreciated and created awareness on the deadly virus.