Narail:The 32nd death anniversary of esteemed artist SM Sultan was commemorated in Narail with a series of events organized by the district administration and the SM Sultan Memorial Museum.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the observance began at 900 am with floral tributes at SM Sultan's grave located on the museum premises. Various representatives from the district administration, SM Sultan Foundation, SM Sultan Memorial Museum, SM Sultan Bengal Fine Arts College, Narail Press Club, District Shilpakala Academy, and other social and cultural organizations participated in paying homage.
The day's activities also included a recitation of the Holy Quran, prayers, a discussion meeting, and a prize distribution ceremony. Notable attendees included Deputy Commissioner Dr Mohammad Abdul Salam, Zila Parishad administrator Mostafizur Rahman Alek, acting superintendent of Narail District Hospital Dr Abul Fazal Mohammad Mashiur Rahman Babu, and several other distinguished guests.
SM Sultan, who passed away on October 10, 1994, was a bachelor known for his secular views. He was laid to rest in his home courtyard in Narail's Kurigram-Machhimdia area. Born on August 10, 1924, in Machhimdia on the banks of the Chitra River, Sultan was celebrated for capturing the essence of Bangladeshi rural life and its people through his art.
His legacy includes numerous acclaimed paintings such as "Jute Cutting," "Paddy Harvesting," and "Threshing Paddy," among others. In 1976, his solo exhibition at the Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy in Dhaka introduced him to the country's intellectual and cultural circles. Sultan's accolades include the Ekushey Padak in 1982 and the Independence Award in 1993.
A champion of children's education and engagement with nature, Sultan used his savings to create Shishuswarga (Children's Paradise), a floating boat on the Chitra River, intending to inspire children through nature and art.