The ‘Magician of Words’: Hanif Sanket Awarded Independence Award 2026

In a move widely celebrated by the nation’s cultural fraternity, the Government of Bangladesh has announced the decision to bestow the Independence Award 2026—the highest state honour—upon the venerable television host, director, and polymath Hanif Sanket. The decision was formalised during a cabinet meeting at the Secretariat on Thursday, 5 March 2026.

Known affectionately as the “Magician of Words,” Sanket’s contribution to Bangladeshi culture through his iconic magazine show, Ittadi, has spanned over three decades, making him a household name across generations.

A Legacy of “Clean Entertainment”

Since the news broke, social media has been flooded with tributes from artists, filmmakers, and the general public. To many, this award is seen as a long-overdue validation of “healthy entertainment.” In an era of fleeting digital content, Sanket has maintained a steadfast commitment to family-friendly broadcasting that blends satire with social responsibility.

His signature style—characterised by impeccable pronunciation, rhythmic delivery, and an unparalleled ability to command a live audience—has set the gold standard for television presentation in South Asia.

The Architect of Ittadi

First aired on Bangladesh Television (BTV) in March 1989, Ittadi redefined the magazine format. Sanket’s genius lay in moving the show out of the sterile confines of a studio and into the heart of rural Bangladesh. By filming in different districts, he created a “cultural map” of the country, highlighting local history, folklore, and linguistic nuances.

The “Social Contract” of Ethics

Sanket has often spoken about the “ethical contract” he holds with his viewers. His content adheres to a strict triad:

Education: Raising awareness on social ills like dowry, illiteracy, and environmental decay.

Information: Discovering “Enlightened Humans”—ordinary citizens doing extraordinary charity work in remote villages.

Entertainment: Using comedy and music to engage the masses without resorting to vulgarity.

Hanif Sanket: A Multi-Faceted Career

Mentorship and Philosophy

Sanket often attributes his foundational success to his mentor, the late Fazle Lohani. Appearing on Lohani’s show Jodi Kichu Mone Na Koren, Sanket learned that television could be a tool for national reform. He describes Lohani not just as a producer, but as a “guardian of conscience.”

Despite the rise of private satellite channels, Sanket remains loyal to BTV, citing an “ancestral soul connection” with the state broadcaster. He famously maintains a “safe distance from politics,” ensuring that while governments may change, the integrity of Ittadi remains untouched.

A Dedication to the Millions

Upon receiving the news, Hanif Sanket issued a heartfelt message:

“This achievement is not mine alone. I dedicate this award to the millions of viewers whose love and support have sustained my journey. I believe that a healthy culture can illuminate a society and bring honour to the nation. I will continue this practice until my last breath.”

The Independence Award 2026 is more than a personal accolade; it is a formal state recognition that television, when wielded with responsibility, remains a vital pillar of a nation’s cultural backbone.