Poet Mohan Raihan Celebrates 70th Birthday Amidst Literary Tributes and Artistic Performances
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National Poetry Council President and poet Mohan Raihan marked his 70th birthday on Saturday at the main auditorium of the National Museum in Dhaka, celebrating a life dedicated to the Liberation War and subsequent democratic movements in Bangladesh.
The event featured a diverse program of poetry recitations, musical performances, the unveiling of a commemorative volume, and a dance drama based on the poet’s work. The chief guest was Chief Whip of the National Parliament Noor-e-Alam Chowdhury Liton, while Minister of Law Anisul Huq attended as the special guest. The event was chaired by Professor Salimullah Khan, convener of the birthday celebration committee. Other notable speakers included lawmaker Shimul Biswas, veteran poet Matin Boiragi, Revolutionary Communist Party General Secretary Saiful Haque, Democratic Cultural Alliance convener Jamshed Anwar, and publisher Osman Gani.
The ceremony opened with a collective musical performance, followed by the screening of a documentary titled “Agnipather Kobi,” which chronicles Raihan’s life and contributions. Attendees from various political, social, and cultural organizations presented the poet with floral tributes.
In his remarks, Professor Salimullah Khan highlighted the deep connection between Raihan’s life and the literary-cultural heritage of Bangladesh, noting that the poet’s commitment to struggle and creativity continues to inspire the younger generation. Responding to the tributes, Raihan expressed his gratitude, stating that he has remained committed to the public interest throughout his life and remains uninterested in personal gain or titles, wishing only to uphold his lifelong ideals.
During the event, a collection of 100 selected poems by Raihan, published by Onno Prokash, was officially unveiled alongside a commemorative souvenir published by the celebration committee. The program concluded with recitations of his poetry and a dance drama performance.
Separately, the Dhrupadi Art Center commemorated the 78th birth anniversary of renowned playwright Selim Al Deen on Saturday evening at the Mohila Samity auditorium. The event, titled “Bhanga Prem Oshesh Bishesh,” focused on readings from his literary works.
The program began with a discussion on the life and theatrical contributions of Selim Al Deen, featuring panelists including Bangla Academy Director General Mohammad Azam, Jahangirnagar University Professor Yusuf Hasan, Rajshahi University Associate Professor Kazi Susmin Afsana, and theater activist Jahedul Alam.
Following the discussion, performers presented excerpts from “Bhanga Prem Oshesh Bishesh,” a deeply personal work in which the late playwright explored themes of love, existence, and philosophy. The reading was directed by Samiun Jahan, with participation from artists including Humayun Azam, Lucy Tripti Gomes, Shahjada Samrat Chowdhury, Shyamangi Shyama, Wahid Ansar, and Farhan Ishrak.
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