President mourns death of renowned artist Mustafa Monowar

President Md. Shahabuddin has expressed deep shock and sorrow over the death of Ekushey Padak-winning cultural figure and renowned artist Mustafa Monowar. He prayed for the eternal peace of the departed soul and extended his heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family members.

In a condolence message, the President said that Mustafa Monowar was one of the main pioneers of painting, puppetry, drama and children's entertainment in Bangladesh on Monday (June 29). His death is an irreparable loss to the country's art and culture.

The President also said that Mustafa Monowar's contribution to the development of domestic art and culture, healthy entertainment for children and the spread of creative practices is unique. His work and creativity will be an inspiration for future generations and the nation will remember him with deep respect.

Earlier, Mustafa Monowar breathed his last while undergoing treatment at a hospital in the capital on Monday morning. He was suffering from complications due to pneumonia. He was 90 years old at the time of his death.

According to family sources, he was admitted to a private hospital in the capital on June 14. When his physical condition deteriorated, he was placed in the intensive care unit (ICU) and later on ventilator support. Although his physical condition improved slightly a few days ago, it deteriorated again later. His wife Mary Monowar said that he was in critical condition due to a serious bacterial infection in his lungs. Despite the best efforts of doctors, it was not possible to save him in the end.

Mustafa Monowar was born on September 1, 1935, in Nakol village of Magura district. His ancestral home was in Monoharpur village of Shailkupa upazila of Jhenaidah. He is the son of renowned poet Golam Mostafa. He became one of the country's most respected cultural figures with outstanding contributions to painting, puppetry, children's program production, television and the cultural arena during his long career. In recognition of his special contribution to art and culture, he was awarded the Ekushey Padak in 2004.

The death of Mustafa Monowar has cast a shadow of deep sorrow over the country's art and culture scene. Various cultural organizations, colleagues, artists, well-wishers and fans have expressed their condolences and prayed for the peace of his departed soul.