Dinat lahan Munni won her first national-level award for singing in 1985, and over the decades, has established herself as a singer, and later as a TV host. She sings old and modem Bangla songs with equal ease, and is quite the pleasant personality on the small screen. The artiste recently spoke to The Daily Star about her music and more.

Between anchoring and singing, what do you enjoy more?

Munni: Singing is always my priority. I have never considered anything apart from singing as my career. It's not that I don't like hosting, but there is a difference between being passionate about something, and just liking something. And to chose between the two, I will definitely prioritise singing.

Are you working on new music lately?

Munni: I am supposed to release a new album in the coming month, but due to the political situation of our country, everything has become rather uncertain. But I am still optimistic of seeing brighter days very soon.

You recently took a trip to Kolkata. What was that about?

Munni: It was a special trip, because it was the first time that I represented my country, the songs of my countty and most importantly Ekushey February - the reason we are able to speak Bangla. It was the best feeling that I have gotten.

Your biggest inspiration?

Munni: My mother is my inspiration. She was the one to encourage me to sing songs. She was the reason to bring out my singing abilities. The other two people who were by my side as my biggest support were - my husband Kabir Bakul, and Matiur Rahman (Editor,

The Daily Prothom Alo). They told me

that whatever else I am doing, I y should

never forget my talent for sing- E* 'n&