Fazlul Haque, the pioneer of film journalism in Bangladesh, the editor of the first film-related magazine ‘Cinema’, and the proud director of the country’s first children’s film ‘President’, was a uniquely wise personality.
He was born on May 26, 1930, into a respected family in Bogura. He viewed cinema not just as a medium of entertainment, but as a vehicle for culture and social consciousness. His career and creativity remain a bright chapter in the history of Bangladesh’s film journalism and cinema movement.
To honor the memory of this great man, his wife, the renowned novelist Rabeya Khatun, introduced the ‘Fazlul Haque Smriti Puraskar’ (Fazlul Haque Memorial Award) in 2004. This award is presented annually as a recognition of excellence in film journalism and film direction.
The award includes a cash prize of ৳25,000, a Certificate of Honor, and a crest.
The Bangladesh Film Development Corporation (BFDC) has named one of its main auditoriums the ‘Fazlul Haque Smriti Milnayatan’ (Fazlul Haque Memorial Auditorium) in tribute to this revered figure of cinema.
His legacy is carried on by his son—Faridur Reza Sagar, the head of Channel i—and his daughter—the famous culinary expert Keka Ferdousi.
He passed away on October 26, 1990.
His contribution to the history of film journalism and cultural movement in Bangladesh will forever remain memorable.
Tributes.
Khaborwala
