Poet Rafiq Azad no more

Staff Correspondent: Rafiq Azad, one of the most prolific and versatile poets of the country, died at Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU) and Hospital at 2:10pm on Saturday, confirmed his niece Niru Shamsunnahar Kabir.

 

The poet had been kept at the intensive care unit of BSMMU since February.

 

Earlier, Rafiq Azad, also a revered freedom fighter, was admitted to Anwar Khan Medical College Hospital following a brain haemorrhage. The poet fell from a chair he was sitting on as he suffered the haemorrhage. Later, he was shifted to BSMMU.

 

He was suffering from diabetes as well as kidney and lung complications for a long time.

 

Rafiq Azad was born on January 20, 1943, in the remote area of Guni under Tangail district.

 

He was one of the leading young poets in the post-liberation period. Since then, he began experimentation on language and poetic form, where surrealistic approach was conspicuous.

 

With his first poetry book published in 1973, Rafiq Azad has 45 books to his credit, including an autobiography.

 

His notable works include “Prokriti O Premer Kabita”, “Asombhaber Paye”, “Sahasra Sundar”, “Haturier Nichae Jibon”, “Porikirno Panchala Amer Swadesh”, “Khub Beshi Durea Noy”, “Khamakaro Bahoman Hay Udar Omiyo Batas”, “Apar Arannya”, “Karo Ashroo Paat”, “Moulobir Mon Bholo Noy” and “Pagoler Thekay Premikar Chithi”.

 

Rafiq Azad received Ekushey Padak in 2013 and Bangla Academy Award in 1984 for his outstanding contribution to the realm of poetry.

risingbd/Dhaka/Mar 12, 2016/A K Azad