Dhaka:The 80th birth anniversary of Syed Abul Maksud, the renowned journalist, researcher, and writer, will be observed tomorrow. Maksud, born on October 23, 1946, in Elachipur village of Shibaloy upazila in Manikganj, gained acclaim for his insightful columns and writings on politics, society, and history.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Maksud became widely recognized through his newspaper columns 'Shohojia Korchha' and 'Bagha Tentul,' where he provided critical insights into contemporary affairs and social issues. He authored over 40 books, notably on Maulana Abdul Hamid Khan Bhashani, including 'Maulana Abdul Hamid Khan Bhashanir Jibon, Kormokando, Rajniti O Darshan' and 'Bhashani Kahini.'
Maksud was also a social and environmental activist who, inspired by Mahatma Gandhi's Satyagraha movement, adopted simple white cotton attire in 2003 to protest the US invasion of Iraq. He maintained this attire for nearly 18 years until his death. His literary contributions were recognized with the Bangla Academy Award in 1995.
Maksud completed his education at Jhitka Ananda Mohan High School, Dhaka College, and Dhaka University. He furthered his journalism skills at the International Institute for Journalism in Berlin, Germany. Maksud passed away at Square Hospital in Dhaka on February 23, 2021, at the age of 75. His parents were Syed Abul Mahmud and Saleha Begum.