Journalist and fiction writer Ehsan Mahmud has been appointed as the director general of July Uprising Memorial Museum. The government appointed him to the post for a tenure of one year.
Speaking on his appointment, Mahmud described the July Uprising as an unforgettable event in the history of Bangladesh’s anti-fascist democratic struggle.
He said the museum has been established to preserve the glorious memories of the uprising, present true history of the struggle to new generation, and serve as a memorial to the sacrifices of July martyrs and fighters.
Mahmud noted that public expectations regarding July Uprising Memorial Museum are high, with new aspirations emerging among people surrounding the institution following the mass uprising.
“We want to work keeping ahead the lessons we received from July to establish democracy, equal rights, and a non-communal Bangladesh,” he said.
Expressing hope for collective engagement and active participation, he added that alongside preserving, practising, and researching the memories of the uprising, the objective is to transform the museum into a national institution of cultural learning, while seeking cooperation from all quarters.
Born in Madaripur, Mahmud’s ancestral home is located in Muladi, Barishal. He holds a bachelor’s degree in institutional education. In his professional career as a journalist, he has worked across several news organisations, including Dainik Samakal, Desh Rupantor, Voice of America Bangla, Manabzamin, and Netra News.
Beyond journalism, Mahmud has made notable contributions to creative literature. His published literary works include the novels Ekattorer Lalmia and Kokil Asamaye Dakiyachhilo, as well as a poetry collection titled Adivasi Premiker Mukh.
He has also authored books on essays and politics, including Swadhinata Ganatantra Manabadhikar: Awami Leaguer Shasanamale Bangladesh 2009-2023 and Bichar Samskar Nirbachan: Antarvarti Aamale Bangladesh.
During the previous Awami League regime, Mahmud lost his job due to his writings. Despite facing the wrath of Awami League government, he remained vocal in favour of voting rights and freedom of expression. Associated with various socio-cultural organisations, he played an important role in July Uprising and has consistently participated actively in democratic struggles as a cultural organiser.
