Tuesday | 14 January 2025 | Reg No- 06
বাংলা
   
Tuesday | 14 January 2025 | Epaper

Poet Helal Hafiz no more

CA condoles death

Published : Saturday, 14 December, 2024 at 12:00 AM  Count : 220
Staff Correspondent
Eminent poet Helal Hafiz, 76, passed away on Friday afternoon. 

According to Bangaban-dhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU) authorities, Hafiz was brought to the hospital where he was pronounced dead at around 2:30pm. 

Initially he was brought to the hospital after being found unresponsive; his death was attributed to a fatal injury following a fall in the bathroom of his residence at Shahbagh in the capital.

The authorities, later on, informed the police as no relatives were present at the time.

Chief Adviser Dr Muhammad Yunus expressed deep shock at the death of poet.

In a condolence message, Dr Yunus said the death of poet Helal Hafiz, a poet of rebellion and love, is an irreparable loss to the Bangla language and literature.

He sought eternal peace of the departed soul and expressed deep sympathy to the bereaved family members.

The chief adviser said poet Helal Hafiz was the power of youth and a brave voice against dictatorship.

"Like his timeless poems, he will be remembered forever in the hearts of people," Dr Yunus added.

Helal Hafiz had been struggling with several health complications for years, including glaucoma, kidney issues, diabetes, and neurological disorders, which had severely impacted his health.

Born on  October 7, 1948 in Netrokona, Hafiz became a prominent figure in Bengali literature. His debut poetry collection, Je Jole Agun Jwole (The Water Where Fire Is Ignited), published in 1986, captured the hearts of readers and became a bestseller, with more than 33 editions published over the years. His second book, Kobita 71, was released 26 years later in 2012.

Beyond poetry, Hafiz worked as a journalist, contributing to several leading newspapers, including Jugantor. He was particularly known for his role in Bangladesh's anti-authoritarian movements. 

His iconic poem Nishiddho Sampadokiyo (Forbidden Editorial), with the famous line, "Ekhon Joubon Jar, Michhile Jabar Tar Shreshtho Shomoy" (" For those who are young, now is the best time to join the procession"), became an anthem for political protests in the country.

In recognition of his significant contribution to Bengali literature, Hafiz was awarded the prestigious Bangla Academy Award in 2013. He also received the Khalekdad Chowdhury Award, among other honours.

The poet's namaz-e-janaza (funeral prayer) will be held at the National Press Club in Dhaka after the Zuhr prayer on Saturday.


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