Dhaka:The sixth death anniversary of eminent journalist AUM Fakhruddin is being observed today. Fakhruddin passed away due to COVID-19 at Kurmitola General Hospital in Dhaka on this day in 2020, at the age of 75.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Fakhruddin began his journalism career in 1958 as the convener of 'Kachi-Kanchar Ashor' and contributed numerous articles to 'The Pakistan Observer' and 'The Morning News.' He held significant positions at several national dailies in Bangladesh and served as a correspondent for The Daily Mirror in London from 1969 to 1975.
One of the highlights of his career was his collaboration with British journalist John Pilger in reporting on the 1974 famine in Bangladesh. Pilger's documentary, 'An Unfashionable Tragedy,' which aired in 1975, included footage of Fakhruddin and was pivotal in raising international awareness about the famine.
Fakhruddin's literary contributions include the Bengali translations of Shakespeare's sonnets, published before he graduated. John Pilger dedicated nearly three pages to Fakhruddin in his book 'Heroes,' highlighting various world events from firsthand experiences, which also featured a photograph of him.
Additionally, Fakhruddin's patriotic song, 'O Amar Bangla Ma, Tor Akul Kora Ruper Sudhay Hriday Amar Jay Juriye,' recorded in 1972, gained significant popularity both domestically and internationally. He served as the associate editor of the weekly Holiday until his death.
To commemorate his sixth death anniversary, a doa mahfil is scheduled in Dhanmondi, Dhaka. His family has requested relatives and well-wishers to pray for the eternal peace of his soul.