Zahir Raihan’s Birth Anniversary Observed Officially
Piyas Roy
August 05, 2008
Birth anniversary of Zahir Raihan, the legendary filmmaker, novelist and talented writer of our nation is observed officially for the first time today (Tuesday 5th August) since his disappearance on 30th January 1972. Bangladesh Film Development Corporation FDC arranged a special program in the morning to commemorate the legend’s 72nd birth anniversary. The program at the Experimental Theatre Hall of Shilpakala Academy included discussion on the genius’s life & work and documentary film-show.
Mr. Jamil Osman, information secretary of the caretaker government graced the occasion as the chief guest. Sayed Shamsul Haque, eminent poet & writer and Ms. Shahensah Begum,
Mr. A N M Badrul Amin, Managing Director, FDC presided over the discussion session that began with a greeting speech by Mr. Rezanur Rahman, the editor of Ananda Alo and President, Bangladesh Cine Journalists Association (BACHSAS). Mr. Afzal Chowdhury as a special discussant recalled his experience with Zahir Raihan as they worked together while making films. Mr. Chinmoy Mutshuddi in his speech drew a special attention to care for and preserve the places Zahir Raihan stayed and worked. Ms. Shahensah Begum in her speech asked people to show respect as they use any eminent person’s name for any installation like auditorium or so, by keeping a corner for the person at there. She also emphasized on the need for research on her brother’s life and work. Syed Haque put some light on Zahir Raihan’s spirit of nationalism and internationalism.
Eminent media and cine personalities, critics, high-rank government officials, members of film societies and organizations attended the program. Along with Stop Genocide a chunk of Zahir’s last and incomplete documentary titled, Let There Be Light and a promotional of an under-construction documentary on his life were shown at there. The documentary is being made by Sabbir Ahmed Shubho. Born
