Dhaka:The 98th birth anniversary of the esteemed poet Shamsur Rahman will be observed tomorrow. Born in 1929 in Mahuttuli, Dhaka, Shamsur Rahman, affectionately known as Bacchu, was the son of Mokhlesur Rahman Chowdhury and Amena Begum. He chose to drop the family title 'Chowdhury' to pursue his aspirations of becoming a writer.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Shamsur Rahman's poetry often depicted the joys and sorrows of urban life in Dhaka, as well as significant moments in the Bengali people's struggles and movements. His notable works include 'Barnomala Amar Dukhini Barnomala', 'Asader Shirt', 'Tomake Pawar Jonno Hey Swadhinata', and 'Udbhat Uter Pithe Cholechhe Swadesh', which capture various national transitions.
His literary journey began with the publication of his first poetry collection, 'Prothom Gan Ditiyo Mrittyur Agey', in 1960. Over his career, he published 66 poetry collections, four novels, a book of essays, a book of rhymes, and six translations. Rahman also had a distinguished career in journalism, starting at the daily Morning Sun in 1957 and later serving as the chief editor of Dainik Bangla. He was also the editor of Bangladesh Times and Weekly Bichitra and contributed to several literary journals.
Throughout his life, Shamsur Rahman received numerous accolades for his contributions to poetry, including the prestigious Independence Award and the Ekushey Padak. He passed away on August 17, 2006.