“Taking up the pen in defence of truth is not merely a profession—it is a profound responsibility.”
Golam Sarwar remains one of the most distinguished, respected and intellectually accomplished figures in the history of journalism and newspapers in Bangladesh. Throughout his long and illustrious career, he was far more than a journalist. He was a highly accomplished editor, essayist, columnist and a mentor-like figure within the country’s media community. Through his incisive writing, he brought the truth of his time to the forefront, while his editorial leadership gave newspapers a fresh language, broader perspectives and a new dimension.
Golam Sarwar was born on 1 April 1943 in Banaripara, Barishal. From an early age, he developed a deep passion for writing. After completing his master’s degree in Bengali language and literature from the University of Dhaka, he chose journalism as his profession and devoted the greater part of his life to it.
His journalism career began in 1963 when he joined the daily newspaper Paigam. He subsequently worked for several of the country’s established and leading newspapers, including Dainik Sangbad, Dainik Ittefaq, Dainik Jugantor and Dainik Samakal. His exceptional ability in editing and newspaper management earned him a distinctive position and enduring respect within Bangladesh’s journalistic community.
During the turbulent period of the Liberation War in 1971, Sarwar became actively involved in the struggle. Until 25 March 1971, he had been carrying out various important responsibilities at Dainik Sangbad before becoming directly associated with the Liberation War. Following independence, he briefly served as the head teacher of Banaripara Union Institution. Ultimately, however, journalism remained the principal vocation and lifelong pursuit to which he devoted himself.
Alongside journalism, Sarwar made a memorable contribution to literature and reflective writing. Among his notable books are Rangin Balloon, Sampadaker Jabanbandi, Amiya Garal, Amar Jato Katha and Swapna Beche Thak. His writing was distinguished by objective analysis, linguistic elegance, wit and an exceptional ability to examine society and the passage of time with depth and insight.
In recognition of his outstanding contribution to journalism and the development of the newspaper industry in Bangladesh, he was awarded the Ekushey Padak in 2014, one of the country’s highest civilian honours. He also received a lifetime achievement award from the Cultural Journalists Forum of Bangladesh in 2016 and another lifetime achievement honour from the Ataus Samad Memorial Trust in 2017.
Sarwar held several important positions during his career. He served as president of the Editors’ Council, senior vice-president of the National Press Club and in various other significant roles within the country’s media institutions. He also served as a member of the Appeals Division of the Censor Board. In August 2015, he was appointed chairman of the Press Institute of Bangladesh.
His life represented a long and remarkable chapter defined by newspapers, journalism, integrity and a deep sense of responsibility towards society and its people. He believed that the greatest strength of a journalist was the pen, and that the foremost duty of that pen was to bring the truth to light.
On 13 August 2018, Golam Sarwar passed away while undergoing medical treatment in Singapore. His death left a profound void in Bangladesh’s journalistic community. Yet while people may pass away, their work endures; voices may fall silent, but words written in defence of truth can continue to resonate across generations.
On the anniversary of his passing, we remember with profound respect this eminent journalist, editor and writer.
Golam Sarwar is no longer with us, but the light of his pen, the principles he upheld throughout his journalistic career and the enduring legacy of his work continue to illuminate Bangladesh’s media landscape.
A humble tribute.
May the light of your pen continue to shine from one generation to the next.
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