Veteran actor, director, writer, painter and advertising filmmaker Afzal Hossain has received the ‘Srijonkola Gunijon Sammanona 2026’ from Rabindra Srijonkola University in recognition of his outstanding contribution to the creative arts.
The honour was presented to Afzal at an event held at the university auditorium on Sunday (16 August). He received a commemorative crest and citation.
The programme was chaired by university Board of Trustees Chairman Robin Khan.
Lieutenant General (retd) Dr Chowdhury Hasan Sarwardy, Bir Bikram, Swarnakishori Network Foundation Chairman Farzana Rashid Brownia and Dhaka University Department of Dance Assistant Professor Monira Parvin attended as special guests.
The university’s honorary academic adviser and chairman of Dhaka University’s Department of Anthropology, Professor Dr Md Rafiul Islam, delivered the welcome address.
Heads of various departments, teachers, officials, staff, students and invited guests were also present.
During the award segment, Lecturer of the Department of Theatre Arts Abdur Razzaq presented a brief profile of Afzal Hossain, while Lecturer of the Department of Music Nishat Tabassum read out the citation.
The programme was hosted by Nigar Sultana, lecturer and coordinator of the Department of Business Administration.
Students from the university’s departments of theatre arts, music, dance and fashion design took part in the cultural programme.
They presented a short play, group songs, dance performances and a fashion show.
Lecturer of the Department of Music Kaniz Khandaker Mitu also performed Lalon songs.
After receiving the honour, Afzal Hossain spoke about his creative journey and shared experiences from his career.
He later took part in a question-and-answer session with students.
In his speech, Robin Khan said, “Afzal Hossain is not merely an actor, director or painter to us.
He is a multidimensional creative talent of our time. His work has entertained us, made us think, taught us to question things quietly and, at times, helped us see beauty in a new way. We are truly emotional and proud to honour him today.”
The ‘Srijonkola Gunijon Sammanona’ is an institutional award introduced by Rabindra Srijonkola University in 2026 to recognise individuals who have made outstanding contributions to Bangladesh’s arts, culture and creative sectors.
The award aims not only to honour the achievements of distinguished personalities but also to introduce their work, artistic vision and creative legacy to the younger generation.
