Dhaka: The 'Vasha-Songrami Ahmed Rafiq Mourning National Committee' paid homage to the late Ahmed Rafiq, a veteran of the language movement, who devoted his life to the promotion of the Bangla language. The tribute was organized through a mourning program at the Sahittya Bisharad Abdul Karim Auditorium of Bangla Academy.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the event was presided over by Prof. Emeritus Serajul Islam Choudhury, the committee's convener. It commenced with a floral wreath-laying ceremony at Ahmed Rafiq's portrait, followed by the singing of Rabindra Sangeet, and a minute of silence was observed in his honor.
Prof. Serajul Islam Choudhury, in his welcome speech, described Ahmed Rafiq as a brotherly figure, affectionately known as 'Rafiqu Vai.' He praised Rafiq's unique character and emphasized his revolutionary spirit and dedication to promoting Bangla literature and cultural awareness. Prof. Choudhury highlighted Rafiq's cultural efforts towards societal transformation and the creation of a more equitable community.
Munir Shiraj, chairman of the Ahmed Rafiq Foundation, also spoke at the event, expressing sorrow over Rafiq's passing and recognizing him as a leading figure in Bengali literary research. Rafiq's contributions earned him prestigious accolades, including the Amar Ekushey Padak and the Bangla Academy Award.
During the program, Ahmed Rafiq's biography was displayed, showcasing his work as a Rabindra researcher, essayist, and columnist. His major works included studies on Jibanananda Das, Kazi Nazrul Islam, public health awareness, and the evolution of Bangladeshi poetry from the 1930s to the 1980s. Ahmed Rafiq passed away on October 2 at the age of 96 in a Dhaka hospital.