Rupam Islam (born 25 January 1974) is an Indian Bengali singer, songwriter, music composer, and writer. He is the lead vocalist of the popular Bengali rock band Fossils. In addition to his work in rock music, Rupam is also a renowned playback singer, having contributed to numerous Bengali films. In 2010, he won the National Film Award for Best Male Playback Singer for his performance in the Bengali film Mahanagar@Kolkata. He is also a member of the Bangla Sangeet Academy, an institution under the Government of West Bengal.

Early life

Rupam Islam was born in Kolkata into a family with a musical background. His parents, Nurul and Chhandita Islam, were musicians and he began his musical journey at an early age. By age nine, he was performing on Aakashvani and Doordarshan. Islam graduated from Asutosh College, affiliated with the University of Calcutta, with a degree in English literature. He also completed a Bachelor's in Education and taught English at a Kolkata school for several years before retiring to pursue music.

Musical career

Rupam Islam started his professional career in 1998 when his band Fossils was formed. Fossils became a prominent figure in Bengali rock music, releasing six albums over the years. As a solo artist, Islam has released several albums and worked as a playback singer, winning several awards for his contributions to Bengali films. His most notable achievement came in 2010 when he won the National Film Award for Best Male Playback Singer for his performance in Mahanagar@Kolkata. Islam is also involved in television, having composed jingles for commercials and television shows.

Personal life

Rupam Islam married Rupsha Dasgupta in 2007, and they have a son named Rup Aarohan Prometheus.

Activism

He has expressed frustration and concern over women's safety in India, particularly highlighting the R.G Kar Rape Incident in 2024, which drew widespread attention and outrage. He is joined by the music fraternity in West Bengal, collectively protesting against the ongoing injustices faced by women in the region. In response, he released the song "Khoto" (wound), a poignant and sombre reflection on how time seems to deepen societal scars instead of healing them, resonating with the pain and urgency of the situation.

Discography

Solo albums

Singles

Collaborations

Fossils

Writings

Filmography

Web series/Serial