United News of Bangladesh

When the restless heart that once beat with curiosity, mystery and endless imagination suddenly fell silent, it left more than just grief. It carved an untreatable wound where nostalgia of teenage years used to dwell with sweet melancholia. This Wednesday, Rakib Hasan, the revered author of the Tin Goyenda series, breathed his last at Gonoshasthaya Nagar Hospital during dialysis. He had returned often, each visit a fragile thread keeping his light alive. But now, before treatment could even begin, death claimed him, causing us a great loss. Destined to chase mystery Rakib Hasan was born on December 12, 1950 in Cumilla. His childhood moved with his father’s transferable job, across Feni and beyond, but it was fueled by a world he carried inside,  a world of shadows, enigma and bewilderment. Initially, he completed schooling, tried uneventful regular work for a while. But the 9 to 6 life could never meet the needs of a soul meant to roam the unknown, to explore suspense and to chase anecdotes waiting to be told. Some books do more than just telling stories. They hide in your backpack, peek from your desk, fold within a fat textbook, become your companions under a warm blanket and your secret friends when the afternoon outside becomes too loud. For those of us who grew up in the '90s and '00s, Tin Goyenda was all of that. Launched in 1985, it was never just detective fiction. Inspired at first by Robert Arthur Jr.’s ‘The Three Investigators’, Rakib Hasan penned the series  into a world for restless juvenile hearts. Kishore, Musa, and Robin, through their laughter echoing under moonlit skies, courage flickering through dark forests, doubts trembling in shadowed corridors, became our invisible companions. They were our whispered wishes, our daring dreams of justice. Through their adventurous tales, we started believing that mysteries could be solved, truths uncovered and that friendship could conquer any fear. And then there was Geogina "Jina"  Parker. Spirited, mischievous, and fearless, she teased Musa, challenged the boys and yet brought warmth and loyalty that tied the group together. For us juveniles, she wasn’t just a character, she was the laughter in the night, the spark in our imaginations, the daring spirit that made flipping the pages of Tin Goyenda under the dim glow of a bedside lamp feel like sneaking into another world that we didn’t understand properly then. Even now, when I pick up a yellowed book, spine-cracked and pages pale with time, a pang of nostalgia hits. An adolescence lost, yet alive within the adventures Rakib Hasan left behind. Over 400 books, including more than 150 Tin Goyenda volumes, were his gift. To many of us, those books are the worlds that will never fade. Beyond 'Tin Goyenda' It goes without saying that his imagination had no limits. Alongside works under his own name, he wrote as Zafar Chowdhury for the Romohorshok series and as Abu Sayeed for Goyenda Raju. He translated Tarzan, Arabian Nights, and other timeless adventures to bring the distant worlds into the hands of Bangladeshi juveniles. His writings were never just mere stories of solving mysteries. They were lessons in courage, resilience and quiet bravery which worked like magic to shape the thoughts of young readers. Every tale had the heartbeat of childhood nights, the thrill of discovery, the whisper of courage hidden in shadows, constantly reminding us that even in darkness, something precious waits. Now that voice has faded like the last soft echo of a bedtime story. What remains now for the fans? A few faded pages, spines worn thin by love, margins filled with the handwriting of teens who are no longer unreasonable like they used to be. Those books once held beneath old mosquito nets, read by the trembling light of a dying yellow bulb, smelled like rain, mud, dust and multiple true friends. And somewhere between those lines, an entire generation found its courage, its laughter, its desire to live long and dream big. Tin Goyenda, Goyenda Raju, Romohorshok, names that once echoed through morning schoolyards and late afternoon playgrounds, now rest like ghosts in our shelves, whispering the promises of a world that will never return. Those tiny pocket books upheld a whole new world to us and helped understand too. They taught us that mystery was never just in the forest or the fog, it was in the ache of growing up, the fear of losing magic and the adamant hope that our heroes never die. And yet, they did, just like Rakib Hasan, leaving us to wander like nomads through the dim corridors of memories, grappling his writings like torches that still flicker, even after the storyteller is gone. A final goodbye I remember sneaking a Tin Goyenda book under my blanket, heart pounding that my mom might find out, reading past midnight, desperate for just one more chapter. I remember the pride when someone asked, “Who solved it?” as if I had been a part of the adventure. Even as tears fall, I am grateful to him for the laughter, the fear, the puzzles, the nights spent with his words. For understanding the fact that children deserve great stories and that even ordinary life can hold extraordinary wonders. Goodbye, Rakib Hasan. You have gone, but your mysteries remain in our old dusty bookshelves, in aching hearts, in every juvenile’s pursuit of the unknown who grew up into adults reading your words. May your divine soul find peace! And, may your writings never lose their appeal!  

Former Vice-Chancellor of Dhaka University (DU) Professor AAMS Arefin Siddique passed away on Thursday night, leaving behind a legacy of academic excellence and leadership. He was 72. He breathed his last at 10:45 pm while undergoing treatment at the Neurosurgery Department of Ibrahim Cardiac Hospital, his brother Saifullah Siddique told UNB over phone. Dr Siddique's namaz-e-janaza will be held at Dhanmondi Idgah Mosque after the Jumma prayers on Friday. Later, he will be buried beside his parents at Azimpur Graveyard. Dr Arefin Siddique’s condition “extremely critical” Despite receiving intensive medical care, he could not recover after being placed on life support. On 6 March, Prof Siddique withdrew cash from a bank booth before heading to Dhaka Club in Ramna. While conversing with others, he suddenly collapsed. His family members reported that he was immediately taken to Ibrahim Cardiac Hospital, where doctors placed him in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU). As his condition deteriorated, he was put on life support. Medical sources confirmed that he suffered a sudden brain stroke, which led to critical neurological failure. Born on October 26, 1953, in Dhaka, Professor Siddique hailed from Raipura Upazila in Narsingdi district. He obtained his master's degree from the department of Mass Communication and Journalism at DU in 1975 and did PhD on televised teaching from the University of Mysore of India in 1985. He joined DU Mass Communication and Journalism department in 1980. Dr Siddique also served as acting dean of Social Science Faculty and as senate and syndicate member. He served as the Chairman of DU’s Department of Mass Communication and Journalism before being appointed the 27th Vice-Chancellor in 2009, a position he held until 2017. After completing his tenure, he returned to teaching at his department until his retirement in June 2020. Beyond academia, Prof Siddique played an active role in various professional and cultural organisations. Former DU VC Dr Arefin Siddique on life support He served as the President and General Secretary of the Dhaka University Teachers’ Association. Besides, he was the Chairman of the Board of Directors of Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha (BSS) and a trustee of the National Museum. His passing has left a profound impact on students, colleagues and admirers across the country. Former Minister Kamal Ibne Yusuf’s wife dies

Former ambassador and freedom fighter Mohiuddin Ahmed has passed away at the age of 88. He breathed his last at a city hospital on Sunday due to multiple age-related complications, said his daughter Parveen Ahmed, a journalist and communication consultant. His namaz-e-janaza was held on Sunday night at Masjid ut Taqwa in Dhanmondi, following which he was laid to rest in his mother's grave at Azimpur graveyard on Monday morning. National Award-winning filmmaker Zahidur Rahim Anjan passes away Mohiuddin Ahmed is survived by wife, Dr Hasina Ahmed; his daughters, Parveen and Nasmeen Ahmed; his son, Asif Ahmed; and two granddaughters. Born in Raipura, Narsingdi, Mohiuddin pursued his higher education at Dhaka University, where he earned a degree in economics followed by a master's in international relations. He joined the Foreign Service in 1963, embarking on an illustrious diplomatic career. Over the years, he held key positions within the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, including acting foreign secretary, deputy chief of protocol, director of general administration, and additional foreign secretary. He served as Bangladesh’s ambassador to Nepal and Senegal (with concurrent accreditation to Mali, Côte d'Ivoire, Gambia, and Guinea Conakry). His postings also included deputy high commissioner in London and assignments at Bangladesh missions in New Delhi and Jakarta. A patriot at heart, Mohiuddin Ahmed defected in favour of Bangladesh while serving as trade commissioner at Pakistan’s Hong Kong mission during the Liberation War. He was also a veteran of the 1952 Language Movement. Beyond his diplomatic service, Mohiuddin contributed significantly to the financial sector. He served as a director at Janata Bank and Bank Asia, as well as Nabil Bank in Nepal. He also held an advisory role at Rangs Group. Before joining the Foreign Service, Mohiuddin was a writer and photographer, contributing to the British Information Service and local publications such as the daily Ittefaq and the weekly Begum magazine. BNP Vice-Chairman Abdullah Al Noman passes away His legacy as a diplomat, patriot, and intellectual will be remembered with deep respect and admiration.

Veteran Bengali singer-songwriter Pratul Mukhopadhyay has passed away. He was 83. After a prolonged illness, he breathed his last in the early hours of Saturday, leaving behind an unparalleled legacy in Bengali music. True to the spirit of his own song, it seemed as though he had set sail on an 'unknown sea'. Mukhopadhyay had been battling health complications since the beginning of the year and was undergoing treatment at a government hospital under the supervision of West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee. A long-time admirer of his music, the Chief Minister ensured that he received proper medical care during his final days. Enam Ahmed Chowdhury passes away Pratul Mukhopadhyay was best known for his soul-stirring compositions, including Ami Banglar Gaan Gai and Ochena Sagore Dinga Bhasiyechi, songs that remain deeply etched in the hearts of his listeners. His music resonated with themes of identity, belonging, and the spirit of Bengal. Following his demise, the Bengali music fraternity has been left grief-stricken. Pratul Mukhopadhyay’s contributions to Bengali music remain invaluable, and his passing marks the end of an era. Fans and well-wishers are mourning the loss of an artist whose melodies will continue to inspire generations to come. Source: Anandabazar Online

Enam Ahmed Chowdhury, former Chairman of the Privatisation Commission has passed away at the age of 87.Chowdhury breathed his last after suffering from a heart attack at his residence in Dhaka’s Banani on Monday. Despite immediate medical attention and being rushed to the hospital, doctors declared him dead upon arrival, said his son Nadim Ahmed Chowdhury. Senior journalist Nizam Uddin laid to restHis namaz-e-janaza and burial will take place on Wednesday after the arrival of his daughter and other family members, who are currently abroad.Enam Ahmed Chowdhury, a distinguished bureaucrat, began his career with the Pakistan Civil Service before serving in various prestigious international roles, including as Secretary of the United Nations ESCAP Commission in Bangkok and Vice President of IDB. He also held key positions with the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and as Economic Minister in London.Chowdhury retired from government service in the late 1990s but remained active in politics. He formally joined the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) in 1999 and later served as the Chairman of the Privatisation Commission during the BNP-Jamaat coalition government in 2001. He was also appointed Vice Chairman of the BNP and later joined the Awami League in December 2018. Ex-army chief KM Shafiullah passes awayBorn on June 29, 1937 in Barokot village, Golapganj, Sylhet, Chowdhury made remarkable contributions to both the political and economic spheres of Bangladesh.

Mohammad Hafizur Rahman, father-in-law of Daily Sun Editor Md Rezaul Karim Lotus, passed away on Thursday. He was 92. He breathed his last at 1:05 pm at his residence in Dhaka's Bashundhara Residential Area. Journalist Mahmodul Hoque no more Hafizur Rahman, a former senior official of the Bangladesh Bank, left behind two daughters, one son, five grandchildren, and a host of relatives and well-wishers to mourn his death. Hafizur Rahman hailed from Sohagdal village in Nesarabad upazila under Pirojpur district. ERF mourns death of journalist Moinuddin's mother The namaz-e-janaza for the deceased was held at the C Block Mosque in the capital’s Bashundhara Residential Area after Maghrib prayers. He will be laid to rest in his family graveyard in Pirojpur after another namaz-e-janaza on Friday.

Senior journalist, storyteller, and senior member of Chattogram Metropolitan Union of Journalists (CMUJ) Khaled Belal has passed away. He was 80. He breathed his last around 10: 00 am on Monday. He was buried in the graveyard on the Garibullah Shah Shrine premises in Chattogram city after his namaz-e-janaza. Journalist Rafiq Bhuiyan, injured during yesterday’s violence, dies  Khaled Belal left behind a son, two daughters, and a host of colleagues and admirers. According to family sources, Khaled was ill for a long time. After his physical condition deteriorated recently, his family members admitted him to the National Hospital in the port city, where he died while undergoing treatment in the ICU. Born in the house of Oli Gandhi near Bauria Moulvibazar in the Sandwip upazila of Chattogram, Khaled was the assistant editor of the Daily Ishan. JS secretariat PR director Labannya Ahmed dies  At the beginning of his career, he worked at The Daily Paigham in Dhaka. He then joined the Press Information Department (PID). After retiring from government duties, he went back to journalism. After The Daily Ishan, he joined the English daily The People's View as an advisory editor. Among his numerous books, several stories and essays are notable, including "Mara Gange Dub Satar" and "Khoma Koro Sharifar Ma'. Former caretaker govt advisor Imam Uddin Ahmad Chowdhury no more Bangladesh Federal Union of Journalists (BFUJ) President M Abdullah and Secretary General Nurul Amin Rokon, CMUJ President Md Shahnawaz, and General Secretary Saleh Noman expressed deep shock at the death of Khaled Belal. In a condolence message, the leaders conveyed deep sympathy to the bereaved family.

Shahjahan Mia, MP of Patuakhali-1 constituency and also president of Patuakhali district unit Awami League, passed away at hospital in the capital on Saturday. He was 85. Brahmanbaria-2 MP Ukil Abdus Sattar dies at 84 Shahjahan Mia, Shahjahan Mia, former state minister for religious affairs, had been undergoing treatment at Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University and breathed his last at 6 am, said his son Advocate Tariquzzaman Mony. He left behind his wife, three sons, one daughter and a host of relatives to mourn his death. DL general secretary Saifuddin Ahmed Moni dies The first namaz-e-janaza of  the three-time MP will be held at Sangshad Bhaban at 3 pm. He will be buried at Patuakhali municipality graveyard following second-namaz-e-janaza at Russel Square Balur Math in Patuakhali on Sunday. Poet Asad Chowdhury no more

Abdul Kuddus, Awami League lawmaker of Natore-4 constituency, died at a hospital in Dhaka today. He was 77.Kuddus, president of Natore district unit of Awami League, had been undergoing treatment at the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) of United Hospital where he breathed his last at 7:22 am, said Shariful Islam Ramjan, general secretary of Natore district Awami League.He left behind his wife, a son and a daughter, and a host of relatives to mourn his death. President condoles Bir Uttam Sultan Mahmud’s demiseEarlier on Saturday, the Awami League leader fell ill and was brought to Dhaka. He had been suffering from old age complications including respiratory problem. PM Hasina expresses deep shock over writer Samaresh Majumdar’s demiseKuddus, a freedom fighter, was elected MP of Natore-4 constituency five times.ICC,B condoles demise of its Vice President Rokia Afzal Rahman  

Group Captain Shamsul Alam (retired) Bir Uttam died Thursday at the age of 74.He was a brave fighter of "Kilo Flight," the code name for Mukti Bahini combat aviation formation during the Bangladesh Liberation War in 1971. Group Captain Shamsul breathed his last at 4:47pm at the capital's Evercare Hospital, according to the Inter Service Public Relations Directorate. He was born in 1947 in Patuakhali district. In 1964, after completing his education in Dhaka, he joined the then Pakistan Air Force Academy in Risalpur in 1964 and was commissioned in the GD (P) branch. On June 3, 1971, he deserted his post in West Pakistan and came to Dhaka to join the Liberation War. But he was arrested immediately after his arrival at Dhaka airport as the Pakistan law enforcers realised he would join the Liberation War. Unable to make him confess, they tortured the then Flight Lieutenant Shamsul in jail and tried to bring him under the jurisdiction of a court-martial but failed. He was later released from jail on a general amnesty and was allowed to return home. On September 13, 1971, after contacting the freedom fighters through a news correspondent, he left the country for India. Read: Former minister Ghulam Mostafa dies aged 88 He reached Dimapur on 24 September and met the members of Kilo Flight. Initially, he started flying with DC-3 and subsequently flew Otter aircraft. On December 3, 1971, Flight Lieutenant Shamsul along with his co-pilot got the first opportunity to prove their skill against Pakistani occupation forces. He flew from Kailashahar at 11pm and entered Bangladesh to strike oil depots near Chattogram airport. He returned to the base after a terrible flight with extreme craftsmanship avoiding enemy gunfire. He was awarded the gallantry award Bir Uttam by the government. Group Captain Shamsul was also awarded the Independence Award 2017 for his outstanding contribution to the Liberation War.