Dhaka: For decades, the melodic hymns of Sister Mary Amiya have resonated across churches in Bangladesh, touching hearts and inspiring devotion. At 63, Sister Mary Minoti, house superior of St. Mary’s Convent in Toomilia, still recalls the first time she heard Amiya’s voice. “Her singing captivated me immediately. I had been singing her hymns since childhood, not realizing that she was the one composing them,” Minoti said.
A member of the Associates of Mary Queen of the Apostles SMRA Sisters, Amiya dedicated 42 years to teaching while passionately composing Christian hymns. She has written lyrics for over 100 songs, with 20 featured in Geetaboli, the official hymnbook used in Masses and liturgical celebrations across Bangladesh. Published by the Christian Communications Center under the Episcopal Commission for Social Communications, the book contains more than 1,000 songs, making Amiya one of its most prolific contributors.
“Amiya is a gifted songwriter and singer,” Minoti said. “Her mastery of Christian music amazed me. She is a treasure for the Catholic community and Bangladeshi church music.”
Amiya’s songs are celebrated for their ability to deepen devotion and express love for God, Jesus Christ, and the Blessed Virgin Mary. Even today, she is often invited to compose music for special occasions such as jubilees and ordinations. Swapna Gomes, a church choir leader in Dhaka, said, “Her lyrics and melodies are sweet and harmonious. That is why her songs are loved across the country.”
Father Kamal Corraya, former director of the Christian Communications Center and editor of Geetaboli, praised Amiya’s dedication to her art. “Her songs touch hearts. As a religious sister, her music feels even more perfect. She meditates and practices deeply before writing and singing.”
Born in Tuital Parish, Dhaka, Amiya joined the SMRA congregation in 1964 and took her final vows in 1973. She studied music at Sangeet College in Dhaka from 1970 to 1972. Her love for music was inspired by her father, and her journey began with contributions to school publications in her youth. She also fondly recalls an early encounter with Mother Teresa in Kolkata, an experience that strengthened her resolve to serve humanity.
Throughout her career, Amiya served as teacher and headmistress in schools across the Mymensingh Diocese and the Archdiocese of Dhaka. She received the T.A. Ganguly Award and recognition from the Bangladesh Christian Writers Forum for her contributions to Christian music and literature.
Now retired due to illness, Amiya lives at Shanti Bhabon in Gazipur, dealing with breathing difficulties and spinal pain. “I am waiting for death,” she said softly. “I will not remain, but my songs will be sung in churches. My memory will live on. That is my greatest achievement.”
Amiya’s hymns continue to be a living legacy, inspiring worshippers across Bangladesh and ensuring that her voice will be remembered long after she is gone.