In this episode of Long Take: Life as an Artist, we meet Khayam Sanu Sandhi, a singer, songwriter, and producer from Dhaka, Bangladesh. Inspired by poets Kazi Nazrul Islam and Rabindranath Tagore—two towering figures in Bangladeshi culture—Sandhi aims to create new music that resonates deeply. “They created thousands of songs—I’ve made hundreds so far, but I aspire to compose thousands,” he shares. Tune in now on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or other platforms!

Sandhi’s musical repertoire spans pure Indian folk and classical music, rock, punk, romantic love ballads, children’s songs, and jingles for advertisements. His compositions reflect the rich cultural heritage of Bangladesh, interwoven with his personal touch and sensibilities. Born into a family deeply rooted in music, Sandhi began his journey on the lap of his father, Khodaboksh Sanu, a trained musician from Rabindra Bharati University, a BTV music composer, and a teacher at Bangladesh Shishu Academy. At their home, which doubled as the music school Anondom Shongeetangon, Sandhi learned to play the harmonium and mastered Indian classical rags at a young age. He performed on stage as early as two and a half years old, later excelling in competitions and winning prizes as a child artist.

In his teenage years during the early 2000s, Sandhi explored rock music. Over time, he fused his classical training with contemporary genres, creating a distinctive sound that appeals to diverse audiences. We talk about his creative process, influences, and the role of Indian classical music in the Bangladeshi pop industry.

His path has not been without challenges. Sandhi speaks about the difficulties of the music industry in Bangladesh, particularly the struggles of receiving agreed-upon payments for his work. He emphasizes the importance of taking time to "feed his soul," ensuring he remains inspired and ready to compose his next piece.

In this episode, Norwegian photographer Ørjan Ellingvåg, who also captured the portraits featured here, will join the conversation.

A Podcast by Norient

Host: Thomas Burkhalter

Sound: Daniel Jakob, Melodies In My Head

Mix and Mastering: Daniel Jakob

Graphic Design (Cover): Pamuditha Zen Anjana

Editorial support: The Norient team + Rebecca Favale

Support in Dhaka: Kazi Tahsin Agaz Apurbo

Funding: Pro Helvetia, srks Stiftung für Radio und Kultur Schweiz, SWISSPERFORM

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For a more experimental listening experience, check out the highly produced podcast TIMEZONES on Norient. You can also explore Burkhalter’s latest project, Melodies In My Head, where interview excerpts are transformed into song lyrics.