Brahmanbaria Correspondent

Advaita Mallabarman Memorial Library and Research Center organized an open seminar titled 'Al Mahmud: His Contribution to Bengali Literature', Poet Al Mahmud of Sonali Kabin of Brahmanbaria, in the 63rd episode of Brahmanbaria Literature Lovers' Meet-Mangal Sahitya Adda. This open discussion was held last Tuesday from 6:00 pm to 9:30 pm at the Municipal Community Center on the outskirts of Teng. Prominent poet and researcher Poet and Al Mahmud Researcher Prof. Mohibur Rahim presented the keynote speech at the event under the chairmanship of poet Dr. Shah Mohammad Sanaul Haque. Poet Advocate Humayun Kabir Bhuiya moderated the discussion, eminent poet and lyricist Rafiqur Rashid, Professor Mann Vardhan Pal, poet and lyricist Abdur Rahim, Professor Poet Muslim Uddin Sagar, poet and researcher Manik Ratan Sharma, poet Amir Hossain, poet Kazi Barnadhya, Poet Rokeya Rahman, poet Shahzada Jalal, novelist Parimal Bhowmik and others. Jaminur Rahman, Farooq Ahmed Bhuiyan, journalist Sahidul Islam Swapan, Shadman Shahid, Masudur Rahman, Rudra Mohammad Idris, Golam Mostafa, Shaheen Al Mamun, Yunus Sarkar and others also spoke.

In the main discussion at the meeting, poet Prof. Mahibur Rahim said that poet Al Mahmud is one of the few timeless geniuses who have increased the reputation of Brahmanbaria. Al Mahmud is recognized as the main poet of Bengali literature in the thirties. He is a poet, novelist, essayist, short story writer, children's writer and journalist. Since the fifties of the last century, he has specially enriched modern Bengali poetry with a new style, spirit and manner of speech. He played an important role in the National Language Movement of 1952 and actively participated in the Great Independence War of Bangladesh in 1971. He won the Bangla Academy Medal in 1968 for only two poetry books. This is a rare recognition. In 1973, when his Sonali Kabin was published, his reputation as a poet expanded even more. Apart from poetry, poet Al Mahmud also played a pioneering role in fiction. In his literature, various accessories of Brahmanbaria have come up in impeccable craftsmanship.

Prominent literary figures have hailed Al Mahmud as one of the finest poets of the Bengali language, emphasizing the enduring significance of his poetic masterpiece Sonali Kabin (Golden Cabin). They stressed the importance of translating this iconic work into foreign languages, ensuring global audiences can experience the richness of his literary genius. Speakers highlighted that Sonali Kabin captures the essence of true literature, transporting readers into the heart of rural Bengal. Through vivid similes, cultural references, and evocative imagery, the anthology paints a poetic portrait of the everyday lives and dreams of Bengali people.

According to the speakers, Al Mahmud's contribution lies in his innovative use of folk elements, reshaping poetic language and creating a distinct genre in Bengali literature. They noted that even if no other literary works of Al Mahmud were published, Sonali Kabin alone would secure his place among the foremost poets of Bengali literature. The anthology's 41 poems showcase his mastery of language, blending aesthetic beauty with bold social commentary. It captures the pain of unfulfilled dreams, celebrates the sensuality of human emotions, and delivers poetic reflections on the complexities of life in Bangladesh.

Acknowledging the posthumous recognition often bestowed upon great writers, the speakers lamented that Al Mahmud, like many literary icons, faced neglect during his lifetime. They expressed hope that time would grant him the recognition he rightfully deserves, solidifying his legacy in world literature. With its timeless themes and masterful artistry, Sonali Kabin remains a cornerstone of Bengali poetry, inspiring generations and enriching the literary tradition of Bangladesh. Speakers say, the golden cabin is like a miraculous book. Its need will not end even in a thousand years.

His belief in God, brought a unique dimension to his poetry, which made him unique. He is the great representative of the great age. Speakers read Al Mahmud, know and emphasize more research on him.