Ekushey Padak-winning poet, researcher and editor Al Mujahidi died at the age of 86 after battling multiple health complications, bringing to an end a literary career that spanned decades and helped shape modern Bangla poetry.
He passed away at 11am yesterday (18 June) at United Hospital in the capital’s Gulshan, according to media reports.
His son, Shabib Al Mujahidi, said the poet was taken to hospital on Wednesday (17 June) after suffering two cardiac arrests.
“He had blood infection, kidney failure, heart failure – all at once,” Shabib told bdnews24. com.
“Around 1pm he had another cardiac arrest. Shock therapy was given but he could not be saved in the end.”
Family members said Mujahidi had been suffering from heart disease, the effects of a stroke and kidney complications over the past year, requiring repeated hospitalisation.
He was admitted to a private hospital on 23 April and remained there until 26 May while receiving treatment for heart and kidney problems.
After spending about two weeks at home, his condition deteriorated and he was admitted to another private hospital in Uttara on 4 June, where he remained until 15 June.
The following day, he fell ill again and was moved to the intensive care unit of Uttara Crescent Hospital. He was later transferred to United Hospital, where he died.
Born on 1 January 1943, Al Mujahidi emerged as one of the notable voices in Bangla poetry during the 1960s.
His work was deeply rooted in the landscape, people, history and cultural identity of Bangladesh, with themes of nature, love, national consciousness and introspection featuring prominently in his writing.
Beyond poetry, he authored novels, short stories, plays and essays, publishing more than 50 books over the course of his literary career.
Mujahidi also served for many years as literary editor of The Daily Ittefaq, where he played an influential role in promoting emerging writers and contributing to the country’s literary development.
In recognition of his contribution to Bangla language and literature, the government awarded him the Ekushey Padak in 2003.
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