Dhaka: Cultural Affairs Adviser Mostofa Sarwar Farooki has expressed deep sorrow over the death of prominent writer, researcher, and leftist intellectual Badruddin Umar. In a Facebook post, the adviser emphasized Umar's significant contributions, stating, "Umar Bhai went beyond the one-sided history manufacturing factory and highlighted the important turning points of Bangladesh in his writings. His discussions on history and political analysis are truly unique." Farooki noted the challenges Umar faced, mentioning that institutions sidelined him for questioning dominant narratives.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Farooki recalled the Ekushey Padak nomination process, revealing that although Badruddin had never accepted awards, the government decided to honor him, asserting, "Because Umar Bhai does not need the award rather, the award needs him." He also mentioned that the government has ensured that Umar's books are available in public libraries. Farooki expressed profound grief, acknowledging Umar's intellectual contributions, "We deeply mourn the death of Badruddin Umar. His thoughts and analysis have been a tremendous intellectual strength for us."
Badruddin Umar passed away due to old-age complications at a city hospital at the age of 94. "Badruddin Umar died at Bangladesh Specialized Hospital at 10:05 am after a long struggle with age-related complications," Jatiya Mukti Council Secretary Foyzul Hakim said in a statement. Foyzul detailed that Umar was admitted to the hospital on July 22 with shortness of breath and low blood pressure and, after receiving treatment for 10 days, was discharged last week.
Badruddin Umar was born on December 20, 1931, in Bardhaman, India. His father, Abul Hashim, was a Muslim nationalist politician of the sub-continent. Umar's writings on the nationalist movement in Bangladesh, religion, and politics left a significant impact on the liberation of Bangladesh. Some of his notable works include "Samprodayikota" (1966), "Sangskritir Sangkat" (1967), and "Sangskritik Samprodayikota" (1969).
A longtime Marxist thinker, Umar began his career as a part-time lecturer at Dhaka University and later founded the Department of Sociology at Rajshahi University. He served as president of the Bangladesh Krishok Federation and was the central coordinator of the Gonotantrik Biplobi Jote. Umar was also a member of the central committee of the Purba Banglar Communist Party. In 2003, he established the Jatiya Mukti Council, serving as its president until his death.