No Need for Nahid Afrin to Return Award: Bimal Borah

Amid the controversy of Nahid Afrin wrongfully receiving the honor at the Assam State Film Awards, Minister for Cultural Affairs Bimal Borah stated that jury members have recognized Nahid for the award for the best playback singer after producer/director of the movie ‘Nijanor Gaan’ had referred her name to the board.

Borah explained before the media saying, “The process starts with the Producers submitting an application form, the producer of the movie ‘Nijanor Gaan’ had referred Nahid Afrin’s name, however, they didn’t mentioned about the name of the song. While the jury members were listening to all the songs of the movie, maybe they had a discussion, following which they got into confusion. However, until and unless the producer does not nominate the song or the artist, the jury cannot select the said song or artist for the award. There might be a human error due to which this has turned into a controversy.”

He said, “As there was mention of Nahid Afrin in the application form, so she has received the honor though the name of the song was wrongfully presented on the certificate. She received the award for Natun Ejaak. There is no need for her to return the award.”

It may be noted that a major controversy erupted on social media after it came to the fore that Nahid Afrin was conferred the Best Playback Singer recognition at the 8th State Film Awards ceremony for a song that she wasn’t actually a part of.

Nahid Afrin received the Pratima Pandey Barua Award for Best Playback Singer (Woman) at the awards ceremony for the song ‘Neelate Luka Bhaku’ from Nijanor Gaan movie.

However, the song was not sung by Nahid Afrin but by Rupjyoti Devi and Zubeen Garg.

The development drew widespread criticism in the state’s cultural department as soon as it became viral on social media platforms.

Meanwhile, the original singer of the song took to Facebook and shared a picture of Nahid receiving the award from Assembly speaker Biswajit Daimary along with a certificate accompanying the award. She also posted screenshot from Youtube.

“CONGRATULATIONS Nahid Afrin for receiving prestigious 8th Assam State Film Award for this song,” her caption read.

Also Read: Nahid Afrin Clarifies About State Film Awards Goof-up