Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus has expressed profound sorrow at the death of Language Movement veteran, poet, essayist, and Rabindra expert Ahmed Rafiq. He passed away on Thursday night at the intensive care unit of BIRDEM Hospital in Dhaka while undergoing treatment (Inna lillahi wa inna ilayhi raji’un).
In a condolence message, the Chief Adviser said, “Ahmed Rafiq was a prominent witness and a courageous voice of our Language Movement. At the same time, he was an extraordinary poet, essayist, researcher, and a guiding figure in Rabindra studies.
“Through the authorship and editing of more than a hundred books, he enriched the history of Bangla literature, culture, and the Language Movement. His contribution to Rabindra studies earned him equal reverence on both sides of Bengal. The Tagore Research Institute in Kolkata honoured him with the title ‘Rabindra Tattwacharya’ as recognition of his erudition.”
The Chief Adviser added, “His passing is an irreparable loss to the world of culture and free thought in the country. Despite his vision loss and physical ailments, he continued to spread the light of knowledge until his final days.”
He prayed for the eternal peace of the departed soul and said, “The life and work of Ahmed Rafiq will inspire future generations. The nation will remember him with deep gratitude.”
The Chief Adviser also extended heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family members, well-wishers, and admirers in the literary and cultural community.
Shilpakala Academy pays tribute
Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy (BSA) has expressed profound grief at the passing of eminent Language Movement veteran and cultural icon Ahmed Rafiq, praising his lifelong dedication to the Bengali language, literature, and culture.
In a condolence message, BSA Director General Sheikh Rezauddin Ahmed Stalin said Rafiq was an active and fearless participant in the historic Language Movement who devoted his life to upholding the dignity of the mother tongue.
“Ahmed Rafiq’s life and work will inspire future generations. His contribution to language and culture will be written in golden letters in the nation’s history,” he added.
The statement further noted that Rafiq’s writings, research, and thoughts have become an integral part of Bangladesh’s cultural progress.
BSA also prayed for the eternal peace of the departed soul and extended deep condolences to his family, friends, and admirers, calling his death an irreparable loss to the nation.
