Ahead of wordsmith Syed Shamsul Haq’s first death anniversary tomorrow (September 27), a commemorative programme is being organised to mark the occasion today at the National Theatre Hall of Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy (BSA), Segun Bagicha in the capital. As a part of the event, two memorial books on Syed Shamsul Haq titled ‘Phuler Gondher Moto Theke Jabo’ published by Charulipi Publication and ‘Tumi Asbe bole’ published by BSA will be unveiled today.

Presided over by litterateur Rabeya Khatun, Finance Minister Abul Maal Abdul Muhith is expected to be present as chief guest at the event. BSA director General Liaquat Ali Lucky will deliver the welcome speech, while Barrister M Amir-ul Islam, Professor Dr Rafiqul Islam, Ataur Rahman, Shahriar Kabir, Professor Hayat Mahmud, Professor Dr Biswajit Ghosh, Imdadul Haque Milon, Anowara Syed Haq and Humayun Kabir will be present as discussants at the progoramme.

After the discussion, the songs of Syed Shamsul Haq will be presented by the artistes at the event.  

Born on December 27 in 1935, Syed Shamsul Haq is one of the most profound litterateurs of Bangladesh. His poems are unpretentious and draw the readers easily. He wrote poetry, fiction, plays (mostly in verse), and essays for Bengali literature. His literary works are included in the curriculum of school level, secondary, higher secondary and graduation level in the country.

The poet was honoured with Bangla Academy Award, Swadhinata Padak, Ekushey Padak, Adamjee Literary Award, Padabali Kobita Award, Nasiruddin Gold Medal, National Poetry Award and many more. He died of lung cancer at the age of 80 in Dhaka on September 27 in 2016. l