The country’s renowned painter, cultural figure and Ekushey Padak recipient Mustafa Monowar is no more. He breathed his last at a hospital in the capital after being treated for complications related to pneumonia for a long time. His death has cast a shadow of deep grief on the country’s art, literature and cultural arena.
Renowned painter and cultural figure Mustafa Monowar had been suffering from complications related to pneumonia for a long time. He was admitted to the capital’s Square Hospital on June 14. When his physical condition deteriorated, doctors shifted him to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU).
While undergoing treatment, his ventilator support was removed a few days ago, giving hope to family members and well-wishers. However, when his physical condition deteriorated again, ventilator support was put back on. Despite the best medical efforts, it was ultimately not possible to save him.
Earlier, his wife Mary Monowar had said that he was in critical condition due to a serious bacterial infection in his lungs.
Unique contribution to art and culture
Mustafa Monowar was born on September 1, 1935, in Nakol village of Magura district. His ancestral home is in Monoharpur village of Shailkupa upazila of Jhenaidah. He is the son of renowned poet Golam Mustafa.
With his outstanding contributions to painting, television, children’s program production, and cultural activities during his long career, he has established himself as one of the country’s most respected cultural figures. His artwork and creative initiatives have enriched the artistic scene of Bangladesh.
He received the Ekushey Padak in 2004 in recognition of his outstanding contribution to art and culture.
Shadow of grief
The death of Mustafa Monowar has brought deep grief to the country’s art and culture scene. Fellow artists, cultural figures, students and numerous well-wishers have expressed their condolences on social media and prayed for the peace of his departed soul.