Humayun Ahmed’s 74th birth anniversary today

The 74th birth anniversary of eminent fiction writer, playwright and filmmaker Humayun Ahmed is being observed across the country on Sunday (November 13).

Elaborate programmes have been chalked out to mark the birth anniversary of the iconic writer.

Offering prayers at Humayun Ahmed’s grave at Nuhash Palli is among the programmes chalked out. Humayun’s family members and fans will also pay homage to the writer by placing wreaths at his grave.

Different television channels of the country will also air various programmes, marking the day.

Humayun Ahmed, son of Foyzur Rahman Ahmed and Ayesha Foyez, was born in Kutubpur of Netrakona district on November 13 in 1948.

He passed his SSC examination from Bogura Zilla School in 1967 and obtained the second position in the merit list of Rajshahi Education Board. He passed HSC examination from Dhaka College in 1969.

Then, he admitted to Dhaka University and graduated as a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry and got a Master’s degree in science. After that, he worked as a lecturer at Bangladesh Agricultural University for six months and then joined Dhaka University as a teacher of Chemistry.

His breakthrough was his debut novel titled ‘Nondito Noroke’, published in 1972. Since then, he wrote over 200 fiction and non-fiction books. His books were the top sellers at the Ekushey Book Fair during the 1990s and 2000s.

Humayun Ahmed-written notable books include Nandita Narake, Shangkhanil Karagar, Aguner Parashmani, Matal Haowa, Jochhna o Jananir Galpa, Shraban Megher Din, Badal Diner Pratham Kadam Phool, Nabani, Krishnopaksho, Aj Dupure Tomar Nimantran, Tumi Amai Dekechhile Chhutir Nimontrane, Phera, Amar Achhe Jol, Samrat, Dwairath, Pakhi Amar Ekla Pakhi, Jalpadma, Aynaghar, Janam Janam, Jol Jochhna, Amar Chelebela, Ballpoint, Fountain Pen, Hiji-biji, Hotel Graver Inn, May Flower, Kath Pencil, Lilabatir Mrityu, Gouripur Junction and Deyal.

Humayun Ahmed also directed a number of popular drama series, namely, Eisab Dinratri, Bahubrihi, Ayomoy, Kothao Keu Nei, which were aired on BTV.

Humayun Ahmed made his silver screen debut with the film Aguner Parashmani. He later directed films, including, Aguner Parashmoni, Shrabon Megher Din, Dui Duari, Shyamol Chhaya and Ghetuputra Kamla.

Humayun Ahmed received numerous awards, including, Lekhak Shibir Prize, Bangla Academy Award, Shishu Academy Award, Jainul Abedin Gold Medal, Michael Madhusudan Medal, Bacsas Prize, Humayun Qadir Memorial Prize, National Film Awards for Best Story, Best Film, Best Dialogue, Ekushey Padak and others.

Humayun Ahmed died at the age of 63 on July 19, 2012 at Bellevue Hospital in New York City, USA. He was suffering from colon cancer.