“In Memory of the Playwright Selim Al Deen”

Selim Al Deen remains a seminal figure in the landscape of Bangladeshi theatre—a playwright, researcher, and educator whose pioneering work reshaped the nation’s dramatic traditions. Born on 18 August 1949 in Sonagazi, Feni District, he emerged as one of the guiding lights of post-independence Bangladeshi theatre, contributing profoundly to both its creative and academic realms.

A polymath in every sense, Selim Al Deen was not merely a playwright but also an essayist, scholar, and professor. His role in establishing the Department of Theatre and Performance Studies at Jahangirnagar University is widely regarded as historic, laying the foundation for generations of thoughtful and socially engaged theatre practitioners. As an educator, he went beyond conventional teaching, nurturing a generation of artists who would carry forward his vision of a theatre deeply rooted in Bengali ethos.

Selim Al Deen transformed the language, structure, and thematic scope of Bangladeshi theatre. Moving beyond mere imitation of Western dramatic conventions, he explored the rich potential of folk life, history, mythology, and rural realities. Forms such as Jatra, Pala Gan, Kirtan, and storytelling traditions were revitalised and adapted into modern theatrical expressions. In his works, the village is never just a backdrop; it becomes the source of language, philosophy, and narrative architecture.

Some of his most acclaimed plays, including Shakuntala, Kittan Khola, Hat Hadai, Keramatmangal, and Prachya, exhibit a distinctive voice and originality that have left an indelible mark on Bengali theatre. His dialogues, often lyrical and imbued with folk sensibilities, carry profound philosophical insights, reflecting his conviction that theatre is not merely entertainment but a powerful medium for exploring national identity.

In recognition of his unparalleled contributions to literature and culture, Selim Al Deen was honoured with the Bangla Academy Literary Award, the Ekushey Padak, and numerous other accolades. His intellectual and creative legacy endures beyond his passing on 14 January 2008, continuing to resonate on the stage, in classrooms, and through scholarly discourse.

Selim Al Deen’s memory remains a beacon for theatre practitioners and scholars alike. His vision continues to guide contemporary Bengali theatre, ensuring that his profound understanding of folk traditions, linguistic beauty, and narrative innovation endures. Today, his name is invoked with reverence across stages, lecture halls, and literary discussions, a testament to a life devoted to the art of drama.

In honour of Selim Al Deen, the theatrical pioneer, we pay our deepest respects.