The Bangladesh Film Development Corporation (BFDC) is planning a film festival in February next year to honour legendary lyricist, director and producer Gazi Mazharul Anwar.
The festival will take place during his birth month, celebrating his contribution to the country’s film and music industries.
BFDC Managing Director Masuma Rahman Tani confirmed the initiative, saying the organisation drew a positive response from audiences after hosting a three-day open-air film festival in September to mark the 30th anniversary of actor Salman Shah’s death.
That experience encouraged the corporation to plan a similar tribute to Gazi Mazharul Anwar.
Masuma Rahman Tani said Gazi considered the film industry his home, yet he did not receive the recognition he deserved after his death. The upcoming festival aims to introduce his timeless works to a younger generation.
Alongside the film screenings, the organisers are also planning to arrange new musical versions of some of his most popular songs. His daughter, singer Dithi Anwar, has joined the initiative.
Born on 22 February 1943 in Daudkandi, Cumilla, Gazi Mazharul Anwar began writing songs in the 1960s. He is credited with writing more than 20,000 songs during his career.
Beyond film songs and patriotic music, he made significant contributions as a screenwriter, storyteller, director and producer.
Gazi Mazharul Anwar died on 4 September 2022.
