Faridpur Correspondent

Prominent author and researcher Mafiz Imam Milon from Faridpur and Ali Ahammad Khan Aiyob from Mymensingh have been honoured with the 'Nayanjuli Izzat Ali Khan-Sufia Begum Literary Award 2026' for their notable contributions to local history research and social service.

The accolades—comprising a crest, a replica cheque, and a citation certificate—were presented to the awardees during a ceremony held at the Bishwo Shahitto Kendro in Bangla Motor, Dhaka, on Saturday afternoon.

Fiction writer, author, and researcher Andalib Rashdi presided over the event, while Dr. Fahmida Mahabub Khan Tonwi conducted the proceedings. Engineer Shahjahan Gazi, a prominent intellectual and avid reader, attended as the Guest of Honour.

Delivering the welcome address, Dr. Mohammad Ali Khan introduced the award and highlighted the life and contributions of the late Izzat Ali Khan and Sufia Begum.

The event also featured the screening of two documentary videos showcasing the lives, literary works, and research achievements of the recipients.

Receiving the award, Mafiz Imam Milon recalled a challenging personal experience shortly after the Liberation War, which inspired his lifelong commitment to social service. He noted that rather than chasing specific milestones, he always sought to engage in any noble deed that came his way.

Ali Ahammad Khan Aiyob emphasized the significance of local history, stating that national and regional historical narratives are built upon regional studies. He shared his ongoing efforts to document and highlight the rich history and cultural diversity of his native Netrokona region.

Andalib Rashdi praised Aiyob’s book Netrokonar Itihash (History of Netrokona), calling it a vital contribution to regional historical research that would serve as an essential reference for future scholars.bd

The event concluded with a special prayer seeking eternal peace for the departed souls of Izzat Ali Khan and Sufia Begum, led by Dr. A.K.M. Jahangir, Chairman of Palli Sanchay Bank.