Retired professor of the Bangla Department at University of Dhaka, Razia Sultana died in Canada on Saturday. She was 89.
DU Vice-Chancellor ABM Obaidul Islam expressed deep sorrow at her death, reads a press release.
In a condolence message, he said she was a dedicated teacher and a distinguished writer and researcher. He added she would be remembered for her significant contributions to education and research, as well as her outstanding literary works.
The VC prayed for the eternal peace of the departed soul and conveyed heartfelt sympathy to the bereaved family members.
Razia Sultana was born on 25 July 1937. She obtained her Bachelor’s in Bangla in 1958 and Master’s in 1959 from the University of Dhaka.
In 1985, she earned her PhD for research on the life and works of medieval poet Abdul Hakim.
She was the first among Bangladeshi women to conduct research on ancient and medieval manuscripts and literature. She joined the University of Dhaka as an Assistant Professor in 1985.
Prior to that, she taught at various government colleges and at University of Chittagong. She was promoted to Professor in 1992.
Among the books she edited are Gule Bakaoli (1970) and Abdul Hakim Rachanabali (1989). Along with Mohammad Abdul Kaiyum, she co-edited Alaol Rachanabali (2007) and Prachin O Madhyajuger Bangla Bhashar Abhidhan (2007).
Her other notable works include Nazrul-Onnesha (1969), Kathashilpi Nazrul (1975), Abdul Hakim: Kobi O Kabya (1987) and Sahitya-Bikshan (1988).
Razia Sultana received several awards and honours, including the ‘Sahityik Mohammad Barkatullah Prabandhasahitya Award’ (2022) and the ‘Nazrul Award’ (2024).
