Poet Helal Hafiz dies at 76
Chief adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus expressed deep shock
Eminent poet Helal Hafiz passed away this afternoon (13 December) in Dhaka at the age of 76.
"The poet was brought dead at Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU) hospital around 2:30pm," the hospital's Director Brigadier General Nazrul Islam Khan told The Business Standard.
"His body is currently at BSMMU. Since no relatives were present with him, I informed Shahbagh Police Station. The police are now checking if there are any legal issues," he added.
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The gifted poet had been battling multiple health issues for years, including glaucoma, kidney complications, diabetes, and neurological disorders.
Born on 7 October 1948, in Netrokona, Helal Hafiz discovered his passion for poetry during his formative years. He pursued higher education at the University of Dhaka, where his poetic voice matured, and he began crafting verses that spoke to the soul of a nation.
Helal Hafiz was a towering figure in Bengali literature, revered for his poignant poetry that captured the essence of social justice, human suffering, and political defiance.
His debut collection, "Je Jole Agun Jwole" (The Water Where Fire Is Ignited), published in 1986, became a bestseller and cemented his place as one of the most influential poets of his time.
The book has since gone through over 33 editions, a testament to its enduring popularity.
His second collection, 'Kobita 71', was, therefore, published 26 years later in 2012.
Hafiz also worked as a journalist for many years, contributing to leading newspapers such as Jugantor.
His poetry gained immense popularity during Bangladesh's anti-authoritarian movements, with his iconic lines from the poem Nishiddho Sampadokiyo (Forbidden Editorial), "Ekhon Joubon Jar, Michhile Jabar Tar Shreshtho Shomoy" ("Those who are young, now is the best time to join the procession"), becoming a rallying cry for protests.
In recognition of his contribution to Bangla literature, Hafiz was awarded the prestigious Bangla Academy Award in 2013.
He also received other accolades, including the Khalekdad Chowdhury Award.
Helal Hafiz's work will remain immortal, inspiring future generations of poets and readers alike.
Chief adviser condoles death
Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus today expressed deep shock at the death of poet Helal Hafiz.
In a condolence message, Prof Yunus said the death of poet Helal Hafiz, a poet of rebellion and love, is an irreparable loss to the Bangla language and literature.
He sought eternal peace for the departed soul and expressed deep sympathy to the bereaved family members.
The chief adviser said poet Helal Hafiz was the power of youth and a brave voice against dictatorship.
"Like his timeless poems, he will be remembered forever in the hearts of people," Prof Yunus added.
