Panjeree Publications at 25: Lighting paths, guiding minds

In Dhaka's Banglabazar decades ago, a modest book shop, like many others, started printing its first few textbooks. Few would have guessed that this small operation, known then as Dhaka Book Centre, would one day become one of the country's most respected publishing houses. 

Starting out on 17 December 2000 as a limited company, Panjeree Publications now celebrates 25 years under its current name—a journey that mirrors the evolution of Bangladesh's educational landscape and its creative publishing.

The Business Standard sat down with Sunil Kumar Dhar, one of Panjeree's directors, to trace the story of a brand that has become synonymous with quality, consistency, and a student-first approach.

"The vision was always bigger than books," Sunil began, leaning back on his chair. "We wanted to create a learning ecosystem that could reach students everywhere, not just in Dhaka." Under the guidance of founders Mohammad Abdur Rahim Shahjahan and later Abdullah Al Baki, Panjeree sought to combine quality with originality. 

Inspired by Farrukh Ahmed's poetry, the name "Panjeree" which signifies enlightenment, was chosen to symbolise the spread of light and knowledge, particularly to students from underserved communities.

By 1991, a logo designed by Mohammad Zafar Iqbal reflected this spirit which was modern, aspirational, and distinctly Panjeree. Moving from Banglabazar to Pioneer Road in 1995, the company adopted corporate practices that set it apart in a largely traditional publishing sector. 

"We noticed that many existing guidebooks were incomplete, poorly structured, or inconsistent. Students deserved better," Sunil remarked. 

"The vision was always bigger than books. We wanted to create a learning ecosystem that could reach students everywhere, not just in Dhaka."

Sunil Kumar Dhar, Director, Panjeree Publications

By the late 1990s, Panjeree's textbooks in Bangla, English, Geography, Science, and the Arts had earned a reputation for clarity, visual appeal, and student-friendly design. Top-performing students gravitated toward these books, drawn not only to the content but also to the care with which each page was crafted.

Consistency has remained a hallmark of Panjeree's success. A research and development team, composed of university students and experienced teachers, continuously refined content.

 "Our goal was not just to provide answers but to ensure students understood the concepts," Sunil explained. Each book offered tips, techniques, and highlighted concepts, creating learning tools that were both precise and empowering.

By the late 1990s, Panjeree expanded into children's and creative publishing, recognising a gap in high-quality, age-appropriate books. 

"Parents and teachers needed guidance on suitable books for different age groups. We introduced age-wise labeling, balanced text-to-image ratios, and standardised fonts," said Sunil. Collaborations with literary figures, including Humayun Azad and Imdadul Haque Milon, bridged the worlds of academic and creative publishing.

Comics soon became a defining dimension of Panjeree's identity. Beginning with Sharier Khan's Basic Ali, Panjeree later brought other beloved titles such as Babu and Laily. "That's where our creative journey really took off. Children's imagination could be sparked while maintaining quality and learning," said Sunil. 

These publications not only captured young readers' imaginations but also helped shape Bangladesh's modern comic industry, with Panjeree setting a standard for creativity and editorial quality.

Sharier Khan, the creator of the iconic comic Basic Ali, recalls the publisher's role in bringing his work to readers. First appearing in Prothom Alo in 2006, Basic Ali later moved to The Business Standard in 2020, continuing to entertain audiences of all ages. Panjeree's first compilation of Basic Ali in 2009 was a milestone in Bangladesh's comic scene, marking a shift in how comics were published and consumed.

"I've been a cartoonist for a long time," Khan says. "The stories of Basic Ali revolve around the Ali family. Each character's name is a pun, Basically, Talibali, Naturally, Magically except for Basic's mother, whose name I kept simple. When the first compilation came out, the response was overwhelming."

Nineteen years later, Basic Ali continues to capture hearts. "Visual storytelling has a timeless appeal," Khan reflected. "The Ali family stories are family-oriented, often with strong female characters. That keeps readers coming back."

Khan credited Panjeree for providing both editorial support and creative freedom. "When my friend Kawser (Md Kawser Hassan, Chairman of Panjeree) encouraged me to submit my comics, I wasn't really optimistic about the comics market in Bangladesh. 

But as he insisted, I submitted Laily." It is worth noting that Laily is Bangladesh's first graphic novel. "After seeing the readers' response, I submitted Basic Ali and Babu," he said.

And there is an underlying cultural significance of these comics. Through subtle satire, Basic Ali highlights society's inconsistencies while entertaining readers. That's why generations have embraced it. The same commitment to quality and clarity applies to academic books. "Students and readers expect reliable content, and Panjeree delivers," said Sunil.

As the digital era reshapes reading habits, Panjeree has adapted, offering model answers, e-books, audiobooks, and online resources alongside print. "Even if only a small percentage of students use them, it's essential to keep them engaged and provide trustworthy content," Sunil added. 

Beyond innovation, Panjeree's legacy lies in its impact on students and readers. Its books are more than academic tools, they are instruments to foster understanding, curiosity, and imagination. By balancing precision with creativity, Panjeree has shaped generations of learners who approach education with confidence.

Reflecting on 25 years, Sunil said, "Our journey is a story of vision, consistency, and a relentless pursuit of excellence." From a small initiative in Dhaka to a publishing giant Panjeree has now become, Panjeree continues to illuminate minds and inspire imaginations across Bangladesh.

In the world of Bangladeshi publishing, few names carry the credibility that Panjeree has earned. And as it looks toward the future, the publisher remains guided by one principle: helping students and readers see the world a little more clearly, creatively, and brightly.