Composer Ibrar Tipu in 'critical health situation'

Composer and music director Ibrar Tipu has been battling kidney cancer for nearly two years and is now facing a critical health situation following recent brain surgery, lyricist Kabir Bakul has said in a social media post.

Tipu, who has been receiving treatment in the United States, is currently at his home after spending an extended period in hospital. His condition has raised concerns among fellow musicians and well-wishers.

In his post, Bakul described Tipu as a beloved colleague and friend who is fighting for his life.

“My brother, our beloved music director Ibrar Tipu, is seriously ill. He has been battling kidney cancer for nearly two years and is receiving treatment in the United States. He also underwent brain surgery recently. After spending quite some time in hospital, he has now returned home,” Bakul wrote.

Citing Tipu’s wife, singer Bindu Kona, Bakul said the family had decided to bring him home because they felt he was not receiving adequate treatment at the hospital.

Bakul added that he had recently spoken to Tipu over a video call, facilitated by his wife, Dinat Jahan Munni. He last met the music director in person during Eid-ul-Fitr earlier this year.

Recalling that visit, Bakul said Tipu had travelled to his home in New York despite being unwell.

“It has been a long time since I last spoke to Ibrar Tipu. He is fighting a battle between life and death. Even in this condition, that familiar tenderness remains in his eyes and face. Being so far away and unable to do anything, I feel broken inside,” he wrote.

Bakul also highlighted Tipu’s contribution to Bangladesh’s music industry, noting that his compositions and musical arrangements have helped shape numerous popular songs.

Among them are Tumi Amar Ghum, Tobu Tomay Niye Shopno Dekhi Na, O Prithibi Ebar Eshe Bangladesh Nao Chine and Besh Besh Besh, Shabash Bangladesh.

Bakul said he had the privilege of working with Tipu on several occasions throughout his own musical career. He remembered the composer as a soft-spoken, cheerful and warm-hearted person.

Recalling how dramatically Tipu’s circumstances had changed, Bakul urged people to pray for his recovery.

“Everyone, please pray for my brother. May Allah help him recover soon and bring him back to us. Allah is our hope,” he wrote.

Tipu’s prolonged illness and recent surgery have prompted an outpouring of concern from colleagues and admirers, who are hoping for his recovery.