Congratulations Anisul Hoque

Poet, journalist, short story writer, novelist, and prose cartoonist—Anisul Hoque stands as a luminous example of how multifaceted creativity can converge within a single individual. His sense of responsibility towards language, fidelity to history, and profound humanism have secured him a distinctive place in contemporary Bangla literature.

Today, 4 March, marks his 60th birthday. He was born on this day in 1965 in Nilphamari. His childhood and adolescence were spent amid the soil and people of northern Bengal—an influence that returns time and again in his writing.

Education and Early Life

He passed his Secondary School Certificate (SSC) examination in 1981 from Rangpur Zilla School and his Higher Secondary Certificate (HSC) in 1983 from Rangpur Carmichael College, securing positions in the combined merit list in both examinations. He later enrolled in the Department of Civil Engineering at Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology (BUET), from where he obtained his bachelor’s degree.

After qualifying in the Bangladesh Civil Service examination, he joined the government Railway Department in 1986. However, an administrative career could not confine his creative spirit. Before long, he stepped into the world of journalism—where the pen became his principal identity.

Career in Journalism

His professional journey began in 1987 as an associate editor of the weekly Deshbandhu. He subsequently held important roles at Purbabhash, Saptahik Khoborer Kagoj, and Dainik Bhorer Kagoj.

Since 1998, he has been associated with the daily newspaper Prothom Alo, where his columns, prose cartoons, and opinion pieces have earned wide readership and acclaim.

Literary Works: Chronicler of History and Humanity

Although he was initially inclined towards poetry during his years at BUET, he later devoted himself more intently to fiction. Whether novels, short stories, satire, or drama, his signature is unmistakable across genres.

His celebrated Liberation War novel Ma is a remarkable contribution to Bangla literature. Based on the true story of the martyred freedom fighter Azad and his mother, the novel has stirred deep emotions among readers and has been translated into several languages.

Other popular novels include Bir Protik-er Khoje, Nidhuya Pathar, and Kheya.

His collection of short stories is equally rich, with notable works such as 51 Borti, Ajkalkar Bhalobasha, Alo-Andhokare Jai, Amar Ekta Dukkho Achhe, and Ayesha Mangal receiving considerable appreciation from readers.

His much-discussed novel Amar Make Kokhono, published at the Ekushey Book Fair in 2023, has also resonated strongly with younger generations of readers.

Drama and Film

He has achieved comparable success in television drama. Productions such as Nal Piran, Karimon Bewa, Protyaborton, Sanko, Proti Chunia, Chorui Bhati, and the mega-serial 51 Borti have enjoyed widespread popularity.

As a screenwriter, he has also made his mark in cinema. By writing the stories for the popular films Bachelor and Made in Bangladesh, he captured the imagination of younger audiences.

Awards and Recognition

He has received numerous honours, including awards for Best Television Playwright, the Tenashinas Medal, the Khulna Writers’ Club Medal, and the Kobi Mozammel Haque Foundation Award.

In 2012, he was awarded the Bangla Academy Literary Award for fiction—an important recognition of his literary achievement.

Anisul Hoque does not merely tell stories; he captures the spirit of the times. From within history, he brings forth human faces, gives language to pain, and teaches us to rediscover love.

On his birthday, we extend heartfelt greetings and wish him long life and continued creativity. May he go on writing about our time, our people, and our dreams.