Renowned artist Mustafa Monowar passes away

Renowned painter, puppet maker and cultural personality Mustafa Monowar has passed away. He breathed his last on Monday, June 29, while undergoing treatment at Square Hospital in the capital. He was 91 years old. Hospital authorities confirmed his death.

According to family sources, the artist had been suffering from various age-related health complications for a long time. He was first admitted to hospital in critical condition on May 20. After 15 days of treatment, he returned home on June 5 feeling somewhat better. However, his condition deteriorated again a few days after returning home.

His wife, Mary Monowar, said, "After returning home, his oxygen level suddenly began to drop and his blood pressure fluctuated. On the advice of doctors, he was readmitted to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) of Square Hospital on an emergency basis on June 14." After two weeks of treatment there, he passed away.

Born on September 1, 1935, in Jashore, Mustafa Monowar made significant contributions to the development of Bangladesh's art and culture as a painter, puppet maker, director and cultural organiser throughout his life. In recognition of his outstanding contributions to fine arts and culture, he was awarded the Ekushey Padak, the country's second highest civilian honour, by the Government of Bangladesh in 2004.

During his career, he served with distinction as Deputy Director General of Bangladesh Television (BTV), Director General of Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy, Director General of the National Institute of Mass Communication and Managing Director of FDC, among other important positions.