49th death anniversary of Maulana Abdul Hamid Khan Bhasani today

Today, Monday, November 17 marks the 49th death anniversary of Maulana Abdul Hamid Khan Bhasani. On November 17, 1976, he passed away while undergoing treatment at the then PG Hospital in the capital, now Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University Hospital. He was later laid to rest in Santosh, Tangail. Various programmes have been undertaken in Dhaka and Santosh on the occasion of his death anniversary.

Maulana Abdul Hamid Khan Bhasani devoted his life to the rights and welfare of the deprived, neglected and working people. During national crises, he would stand by the people and inspire them to build an unstoppable movement. Throughout his long career, he worked selflessly for the country and its people.

Maulana Bhasani always prioritised national interest above personal interest. Despite being close to power, he was never lured by it. In his personal life, he was modest, simple and austere. His simple lifestyle reflected his profound love for the country and its people. He struggled throughout his life to build a progressive, democratic and non-communal Bangladesh free from exploitation and deprivation. He made a significant contribution to shaping Bengali national identity.

BNP acting chairman Tarique Rahman has issued a message marking the death anniversary of Maulana Bhasani. In the message, he said Maulana Bhasani is an unforgettable and important name in our national history. From the anti-British movement to the struggles of the oppressed people of the subcontinent, he provided uncompromising and courageous leadership against imperialism, colonialism and domination. Maulana Bhasani will forever be remembered as a guide to the nation’s liberation. He was a shining figure in Bangladesh’s independence struggle, democratic movements and the fight for farmers-workers-toiling masses. His stance was always against oppression and in favour of the oppressed.

He further added that Maulana Bhasani continually inspired people with his fearless and strong leadership in securing their rights. His roar would shake the throne of tyrannical rulers and exploiters. In the nation’s darkest times, he stood for public interest and earned the people’s trust and confidence.

In his message, Tarique Rahman expressed deep respect for Maulana Bhasani’s memory and prayed for the forgiveness of his departed soul. BNP secretary general Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir has issued a separate message on the occasion.

Maulana Bhasani was born on December 12, 1860 in Dhangara village of Sirajganj. Although born in Sirajganj, he spent most of his life in Santosh, Tangail. He had been involved in politics since his youth. During the Liberation War of Bangladesh, he served as an adviser to the provisional government. He was the founding president of the Awami League formed in 1949. On June 24, 1957, his relationship with the Awami League came to a permanent end.