DL Reporter

To pay tribute to late noted actor and elocutionist Golam Mustafa--who with his inspirational voice contributed exceptionally in the field of recitation, Bangladesh Abritti Samannay Parishad has launched an award after his name. From this year, the award titled ‘Golam Mustafa Abirriti Padak’ (Golam Mustafa Recitation Award) will be conferred on 10 pioneer elocutionists for their extraordinary contribution to recitation.
However, as a part of the initiative, to observe the first moment of Amar Ekushey February and remembering Golam Mustafa on his death anniversary, this year’s award has been given to 10 noted elocutionists at a function on the Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy premises in the capital on February 20.
The programme was attended by president of Bangladesh Abritti Samannay Parishad and Cultural Minister Asaduzzaman Noor as chief guest, while Suborna Mustafa, the daughter of Golam Mustafa, was present as special guest.
At the beginning of the programme, Asaduzzaman Noor recited the poem titled ‘Ekushey February’ written by Abdul Gaffar Chowdhury. Then, the chief guest and special guest greeted the award recipients with ‘uttorio’ (celebratory scarf) and handed over a cheque of 10 thousand taka and an award to each of them.
Asaduzzaman Noor said in his speech, “The contribution Golam Mustafa made in his lifetime to promote Bangladesh’s recitation as an art is undeniable. I have a family relationship with his family, a relationship of soul. It was a wonderful experience to act alongside him, as well as having amazing experiences of reciting. The award, which has been launched today to pay homage to the colourful life of a great personality like him, is really a matter of pride and happiness. We are feeling proud with the opportunity of honouring the veteran recitation artistes on this occasion. This is truly the best gift to the recitation artistes.”
Suborna Mustafa said, “My father taught me to love and honour people and to take path independently. I am giving my words that I will celebrate the life of Golam Mustafa along with you from the next year.
The recipients of this year’s ‘Golam Mustafa Abiritti Award’ are Nikhil Sen, Syed Hasan Imam, Kamal Lohani, Ashraful Alam alongside posthumous awards for Mrinal Sarkar, Wahidul Haq, Nazim Mahmud, Hem Chandra Bhattacharya, Noren Biswas, Kazi Abu Jafar Siddiqui.
The entire programme was moderated by general secretary of Bangladesh Abritti Samannay Parishad Ahkam Ullah, while several recitation organisations, including Kanthoshilan, Swarashruti and Kotha Abiritti Charcha Kendra presented recitations in the programme. 

Photo courtesy : Alif Hossain Rifat