Dhaka: Speakers at a discussion emphasized that poet Forrukh Ahmed has uniquely positioned himself in Bengali literature, emerging as a powerful and independent voice rather than aligning with any particular literary school.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the event was organized by the Jahangirnagar University Central Students' Union (JUCSU) on Thursday night at the university's Bot Tola area. The program saw participation from Bangla Department Professors Khorshed Alam and Suman Sajjad, JUCSU Vice-President Abdur Rashid Zitu, General Secretary Mazharul Islam, Literary Secretary Jahidul Islam Bappy, and researchers such as Kajal Rashid Shaheen, Mahbub Mukul, Borhan Mahmud, Abid Azam, Moin Muntasir, and Imran Mahfuz.
Poets Shakil Mahmud, Didar Muhammad, and Tanzila Ferdous recited poems during the occasion. Dr. Mahbub Hasan, a Forrukh researcher, spoke as the chief guest, noting that Forrukh Ahmed did not conform to the mainstream literary trends of the 1930s and 1940s. He emphasized, "Forrukh Ahmed moved forward with his own thoughts and distinctive language. Those who define him only as an Islamic Renaissance poet have not read him completely. Forrukh is a free and powerful poet of the Bengali language. The more Bangladesh advances, the more relevant he will become."
Researcher Kajal Rashid Shaheen pointed out the importance of understanding Forrukh Ahmed's work with deeper literary sensitivity. He mentioned that Ahmad Sofa's famous essay 'Kobi Forrukh Ahmed-er Ki Oporadh' provides answers to many questions and should be read widely.
Professor Khorshed Alam observed that criticisms often directed at Forrukh were also present among others who later changed their stance, highlighting the unfair targeting of the poet. Professor Suman Sajjad reflected on his 25 years at Jahangirnagar University, both as a student and teacher, noting that this was the first time he had witnessed a university-wide discussion on Forrukh Ahmed.