"Notun Kuri returns: the childhood stage of dreams set to shine with talent again"

Some creations do more than endure; they become part of a nation’s very heartbeat, resonating across generations. Notun Kuri is one such creation — not just a television programme, but a living archive of childhood dreams, a melody of innocence, and a cultural movement that helped shape the artistic soul of Bangladesh.

Once upon a Friday, its name was synonymous with joy for children and teenagers across the country. The familiar chorus, “Amra Notun, Amra Kuri”, was more than a song; it was an anthem of discovery, a doorway to hidden talent.

Now, after nearly two decades of silence, Notun Kuri returns to Bangladesh Television (BTV), rekindling the excitement, spirit, and dream it once nurtured. With its revival, a fresh breeze once again sweeps through the nation’s cultural landscape, promising to cultivate the voices and visions of a new generation.

From its earliest years, Notun Kuri ignited a wave of enthusiasm nationwide. Children recited poetry, sang with perfect diction, performed heartfelt dramas, and danced with grace, filling audiences with renewed hope. It was never just a contest; it was the first school of artistry for young dreamers.

Its stage gave rise to countless distinguished performers — many of today’s brightest names in drama, music, and dance began here. Among them: Nusrat Imrose Tisha, Rumana Rashid Ishita, Kanak Chapa, Shamima Yasmin Diba, Rahat Azim, Azad Rahman Shakil, Azmiri Sultana Holly, Sihan Monirul Hasan, Shahnaz Chowdhury Luna, Rudaba Adnin Kumkum, Meher Afroz Shaon, Samina Chowdhury, Hemanti Rakkhit Das, and dancer Chandni. Each proved their talent, and many went on to represent Bangladesh’s cultural identity at home and abroad.

After its abrupt discontinuation in 2006, Notun Kuri lay dormant for almost 20 years — leaving a void in the cultural and creative growth of children, as no comparable national platform emerged. That long wait ended on August 17, 2025, when Notun Kuri 2025 was officially relaunched. Information and Broadcasting Adviser Md. Mahfuj Alam inaugurated the event, remarking, “Beyond political divisions, this celebration of art, literature, and culture will nurture the creativity of our next generation. It marks the beginning of a new era.”

The format has been modernized. Bangladesh has been divided into 19 regions, each hosting selection rounds. Finalists will compete in Dhaka, with participants grouped into two age categories: Group A (6–11 years) and Group B (11–15 years). The competition now spans a wide range of disciplines: patriotic, modern, folk, Rabindra and Nazrul songs; Hamd-Naat; acting; recitation; storytelling; comedy; and both classical and general dance. Each category will be judged by panels of acclaimed experts, with the programme broadcast nationwide using modern technology.

The revival has already sparked waves of nostalgia. Social media is filled with memories from former contestants: “Fridays in childhood were defined by Notun Kuri.” Singer Kanak Chapa reflected, “In 1978, at seven years old, I won first place in patriotic songs. That joy remains one of the most cherished memories of my life. Notun Kuri will once again help children build dreams — not for prizes, but for recognition that truly matters.”

Azad Rahman Shakil, winner in 1977 and 1978, shared: “The return of Notun Kuri after 20 years brings me immense joy. This is not just a competition; it is a grand stage for discovering hidden talents. I rose from this very platform, and I know how transformative it can be for a child’s future.”

Director General of BTV Md. Mahbubul Alam described the relaunch as a “cultural wave”, adding, “Notun Kuri is not merely a show, it is a national cultural movement. It will re-engage children in the arts and help counter unhealthy digital dependency.”

Launched in 1976 through the vision of Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman and cultural pioneer Mostafa Monwar, Notun Kuri was named after Golam Mostafa’s poem “Kishor.” Its mission was simple yet profound: to unearth hidden gems from every corner of Bangladesh and bring them to the national stage.

In its very first year, more than 9,000 young artists participated — many of whom later became active in cultural organisations and training centres. This is the true legacy of Notun Kuri: not only a competition, but a movement that has left an indelible mark on national life.

For children, the stage became more than a platform; it was a place where they discovered courage, confidence, patriotism, and teamwork. For parents, it was an opportunity to see their children dream bigger than their surroundings. “My child is growing up in a small town,” one parent said. “An opportunity to perform on a national stage will change his life forever.”

Today, Notun Kuri 2025 is more than a relaunch — it is the rebirth of a legacy. It restores a lost tradition, ensuring that the seeds once sown will bloom anew in the hands of today’s youth.

As the familiar chorus returns — “Amra Notun, Amra Kuri” — a new generation steps forward. From this stage will rise the next Tisha, Ishita, and Kanak Chapa, illuminating Bangladesh’s cultural horizon with new stars.