Aghore Mandal farewelled with deep respect, love

Legendary sports journalist Aghore Mandal died, leaving his colleagues and family in tears. He breathed his last on Wednesday (September 25) afternoon from a heart attack while receiving treatment at Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University Hospital in the capital. He was 58 years old and is survived by his wife, two daughters, and many relatives and friends.

Aghore Mandal had been facing various health issues, including serious kidney and heart problems, for a long time. His creatinine levels were much higher than normal, and his kidney condition was somewhat managed through dialysis. However, on September 5, he was admitted to Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University Hospital after contracting dengue fever. That same day, his condition worsened, leading to a transfer from the general cabin to the ICU. He was placed on life support in the ICU on September 13 due to further deterioration of his health. Sadly, Aghore Mandal did not recover from that state.

Aghore Mandal's body was brought to the National Handball Stadium after 8:00 PM on Wednesday and then taken to his last workplace, ATN News. After players, organizers, and colleagues paid their respects and bid farewell, he was cremated that night at the Postogola Crematorium.

Aghore Mandal was a shining star in sports journalism for over three and a half decades. Alongside Farhad Tito-Utpal Shuvro, he played a significant role in modernizing sports journalism in the country. Aghore witnessed the evolution of Bangladesh cricket and uncovered the stories of many cricketers through his writing. This exceptionally talented journalist excelled not only in cricket but also in football, hockey, and swimming. He covered numerous international tournaments, including the Cricket World Cup, Football World Cup, Olympics, and Asian Games, as well as Tests and ODIs both at home and abroad, traveling to various countries for his work.

Despite his busy schedule, Aghore Mandal consistently wrote at least one sports column each month. Sports fans admired his sharp and insightful pieces in newspapers and magazines. He also authored several books, with notable titles including 'Extra Time' and 'Extra Cover'.

Aghore Mandal gained significant popularity for his columns on politics and other topics in various newspapers and online media. He was also well-known as a talk show host and discussant for several programs.

He held the position of Acting President of the Bangladesh Sports Journalists Association and also served as its Vice President. In 2017, he took on the role of Acting President for a period of time.

Aghore Mandal's remarkable journey as a journalist in Dhaka began with 'Dainik Janmobhumi', but his career in sports journalism took off at 'Daily Ajker Kagoj' in the 1990s. He later joined 'Bhorer Kagoj', where he enjoyed a long and successful tenure. The latter part of the '90s was particularly vibrant, and he became widely recognized as the "Bhorer Kagoj's Aghore Mandal." Aghore Mandal, who passed away at 58, had a total of 35 years in journalism. Through his work at this newspaper, he mentored many aspiring sports journalists. His unique talent also shone at Lal-Sobuj, Dainik Bangla, and Banglar Bani.

Aghore Mandal's expertise extended to TV channels and online news portals as well. He transitioned from print media to electronic media in the early 21st century, working for private television channels like Channel I, Deepta TV, and ATN News. In addition to his work in sports journalism, he also served as a news editor. His career culminated in the role of news editor for Digital and New Media at ATN News (last duty of his life/during his death).

Aghore Mandal's expertise extended to TV channels and online news portals as well. He transitioned from print media to electronic media in the early 21st century, working for private television channels like Channel I, Deepta TV, and ATN News. In addition to his work in sports journalism, he also served as a news editor. He passed away while holding the position of News Editor for Digital and New Media at ATN News.

Reflecting on Aghore Mandal's contributions to popularizing various sports and promoting their development, his untimely death has cast a shadow of mourning over the sports community. The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB), Bangladesh Olympic Association, Dhaka Reporters Unity, Bangladesh Sports Journalists Association (BSJA), Bangladesh Krilalekhak Samiti, and many other organizations have expressed their condolences in separate messages.