Priyo Manush: Portrait of an ABM Helal

Indeed, individuals often perceive their own existence through the reflections provided by others. The portrait of a person's life is most vividly depicted in the eyes of friends, relatives, companions, and colleagues. For individuals who are writers, researchers, travelers, and publishers, their scope of self-expression is naturally broader. As companions, they form close bonds with those friendly individuals who can eloquently showcase their accomplishments and endeavors, much like crafting a bouquet of a hundred flowers.

The book 'Priyo Manush' is mainly dedicated to the publisher ABM Helal. The book was published by 'Ranchi Grantha Niketan' edited by Najma Rashid Munni. Writer Hossainuddin Hossain, poet Fazlur Rahman, writer Bilu Kabir, freedom fighter Debesh Chandra Sanyal, editor of India's Ashar Alo newspaper have evaluated ABM Helal's career with love. Shuvendu Vikas Mandal, Assistant Professor of Philosophy of Karmasree Hiteswar Saikia College in Assam Nurul Islam, Dhaka University German language teacher, author-essayist Muhammad Tanim Naushad, poet Zahid Sohag, writer and researcher Hasan Iqbal, poet journalist Russell Mahmud, poet Khaled Chowdhury and many other poets and writers.

Poets, literary figures, friends, and well-wishers have shared fond memories of their encounters with ABM Helal, recounting delightful stories of their associations with him. Consistently, friends and well-wishers characterize Mr. Helal as friendly, sociable, generous, adventurous, and remarkably inquisitive. His home boasts a diverse collection spanning various subjects, a testament to his intellectual curiosity and breadth of interests.

During a visit to his home, writer Zakir Talukder expressed his fascination with exploring old periodicals and books, reflecting Mr. Helal's dedication to preserving and exploring literary treasures. Jamsedur Rahman Sajib, Executive Editor of Printing Industry Publishing, revealed that Mr. Helal has embarked on journeys to all 64 districts of Bangladesh. Moreover, wherever his travels take him, Mr. Helal absorbs the history, traditions, and essence of the places, capturing the essence of space, time, and the people he encounters along the way.

ABM Helal embarked on a distinctive artistic journey with 'Ranchi Grantha Niketan' at Concord Emporium, Kantaban. Despite his primary business pursuits lying elsewhere, he entered the publishing industry primarily out of a commitment to literary service. At Ranchi Grantha Niketan, he engaged in lively discussions with numerous contemporary poets and writers, serving as a connecting link for many within the literary community. This establishment, along with his Grantha Niketan, stands as a testament to their collective affection and camaraderie.

Through the book "Priyo Manush," readers not only gain insight into Helal's persona but also delve into the history of Dhaka, the capital of Bengali literature, over the past two decades. The narrative paints a vivid picture of how landmarks such as Shahbagh, Aziz Supermarket, fine arts, cinemas, and writers' hangouts found their way to Concord, embodying the evolving landscape of Dhaka's cultural and literary scene.
The book was published in January 2024. At the conclusion of the book, several poems dedicated to ABM Helal by his colleagues are included, adding a touching and personal touch to the publication. Additionally, a notable feature of the book is the comprehensive list of ABM Helal's collections appended at the end, providing readers with insight into his diverse interests and literary endeavors.

Book: Priyo Manush
Editing: Najma Rashid Munni
Prakshani: Ranchi Grantha Niketan
Cover: Meezan Swapan
Price: 500 Tk