A total of 13 individuals and six organisations were honoured with the Independence Award 2026 and Literary Award 2026 at the closing ceremony of the Independence Book Fair organised by Chattogram City Corporation (CCC).
The event was held today (18 April) at the gymnasium premises of Chattogram District Stadium.
This year, eight individuals and three organisations received the Independence Memorial Award. Late Abdullah Al Noman was honoured posthumously for his contribution to the independence movement.
For their contributions to the Liberation War, Bir Muktijoddha Mohammad Ekramul Karim was recognised. Nur Ahmad, Chairman (posthumous), was honoured in education, Professor Dr MA Faiz in healthcare, and Daily Purbokone Editor Dr M Rameez Uddin Chowdhury in journalism.
Former national cricket team captain Akram Khan was awarded in sports, while Bangladesh Red Crescent Society in social service, Chattogram Maa-O-Shishu Hospital in healthcare, and Jatiyatabadi Samajik Sanskritik Sangstha (JASAS) in culture also received recognition. In music, artist Abdul Mannan Rana and in regional language and culture, artist Bulbul Akhter were honoured.
Meanwhile, five individuals received the Literary Award. Dr Abdullah Al Mamun was recognised for lyrics, Syed Khaledul Anwar for children’s literature, Harun Rashid for essays and research, Shahid Hasan for poetry, and Zahed Motaleb for fiction.
CCC Mayor Shahadat Hossain attended as the chief guest, while Chief Executive Officer Mohammad Ashraful Amin presided over the event.
Speaking at the event, the mayor said the awards were given to properly recognise contributions across different fields. He added that merit and contribution were prioritised over political identity in selecting awardees.
The book fair, organised by CCC and managed by the Chattogram Creative Publishers Council, featured participation from various publishing houses across the country. Cultural performances were also held alongside the award ceremony.
Member of Parliament for Chattogram-9, Mohammad Abu Sufian and other senior officials were present as special guests.
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