Humayun Azad’s 21st death anniversary today

Humayun Azad was one of Bangladesh’s most unconventional and multifaceted writers. Consciously avoiding traditional thought, he stood as a pioneering figure in Bengali literature a uniquely intellectual, radiant, and revolutionary voice who challenged societal norms. Today, August 12, marks his 21st death anniversary.

Although best known for his groundbreaking work in language and prose, Azad's poetry remained a constant throughout his life. His books for children and young adults were widely appreciated, and he was equally successful as a novelist. His literary voice was bold, provocative, and often controversial particularly in its critiques of religion, fundamentalism, institutional authority, sexual politics, and patriarchy.

Azad emerged as a political commentator in the late 1980s, writing extensively on contemporary issues. His columns, first appearing in the weekly Khoborer Kagoj, openly opposed military rule and laid the foundation for his reputation as a fearless writer unafraid to confront power structures.

In recognition of his contributions, Azad was awarded the Bangla Academy Literary Award in 1986. In 2012, he was posthumously awarded the Ekushey Padak, one of the country’s highest civilian honors, for his outstanding contributions to literature and linguistics.

Born on April 28, 1947, in Rarhikhal, Bikrampur (present-day Munshiganj), he was originally named Humayun Kabir. He changed his name to Humayun Azad in 1988. His father was Abdur Rashid and his mother, Jobeda Khatun.

In 2004, Azad faced fierce backlash for his novel Pak Sar Jamin Sad Bad, which sharply criticized religious extremism. On February 27 of that year, while returning home from the Amar Ekushey Book Fair, he was brutally attacked by a group of assailants, leaving him critically injured. After recovering, he traveled to Germany on a research fellowship.

On August 12, 2004 just five days after arriving in Munich he was found dead in his apartment. The exact circumstances of his death remain the subject of speculation and controversy.

Two decades later, Humayun Azad’s legacy endures through his fearless writing and unwavering commitment to free thought. His works continue to inspire new generations of readers, writers, and thinkers in Bangladesh and beyond.