Today, 8 February, we honour the birth anniversary of one of the most significant voices in modern Bangla poetry — Abu Zafar Obaidullah, a poet whose words stirred hearts and whose legacy remains etched in the soul of Bangladeshi literature. Born on this day in 1934, he emerged as a powerful and conscious voice of post-partition Bangla poetry, deeply rooted in the cultural and political consciousness of Bangladesh.
Table of Contents
Happy Birthday Abu Zafar Obaidullah
Early Life and Family Background
Abu Zafar Obaidullah was born into a respected Muslim family in the quiet village of Baharchar Shudrakathi in Barisal, during British colonial rule. His full name was Abu Zafar Muhammad Obaidullah Khan, and he was affectionately called Centu by his close ones. He came from a distinguished family—his father, Abdul Jabbar Khan, served as the Speaker of the Pakistan National Assembly, and his mother was Saleha Khatun, a noble presence in their household. This upbringing in a culturally and politically aware environment helped shape Obaidullah’s literary and intellectual pursuits from an early age.
Professional Life and Public Service
Apart from his rich literary contributions, Abu Zafar Obaidullah also served his country with distinction as a senior government official. His career in public service reached its peak in the 1980s when he was appointed the Minister of Agriculture in the Government of Bangladesh. His commitment to the development of his nation, both through governance and literature, made him a rare blend of statesman and artist. He successfully bridged the divide between bureaucracy and creative expression, serving the people in both spirit and administration.
Literary Contributions
Abu Zafar Obaidullah’s poetry was marked by its lyricism, profound sensitivity, and deep humanism. His works often reflected the socio-political landscape of Bangladesh, the struggles of the common people, and a passionate love for the Bengali language and heritage.
Among his most acclaimed works are:
- Satanari Har (1955)
- Ever Colour Tune (1970)
- Kamal Eyes (1974)
- I Am Talking About Legends (1981)
- Sahasnu Awakshi (1982)
- Love Kavita (1982)
- Rain and Brave Man Prayer (1983)
- My Time (1987)
- Selected Poetry (1991)
- All My Talks (1993)
- Smooth Krishna Rosa
His writing transcended mere artistic expression—it was a chronicle of his times, imbued with a visionary’s call to action, a philosopher’s contemplation, and a lover’s tenderness.
Recognition and Awards
In recognition of his remarkable contributions to Bengali literature, Abu Zafar Obaidullah received several prestigious awards during his lifetime:
- Bangla Academy Award (1979) – for his outstanding literary achievements.
- Ekushey Padak (1985) – one of the highest civilian honours in Bangladesh, awarded for his exceptional contribution to Bangla literature and culture.
Legacy and Death
Abu Zafar Obaidullah passed away on 1 March 2001, leaving behind a body of work that continues to inspire generations of poets, writers, and thinkers. His legacy is not just literary; it is also cultural, ideological, and national. He believed in the power of words to inspire change and held onto the ideals of justice, equality, and national identity throughout his life and writings.
On his birthday, we remember Abu Zafar Obaidullah not just as a poet, but as a cultural icon, a patriot, and a beacon of intellectual integrity. His poetry continues to echo through the corridors of Bengali literature, reminding us of our collective struggles, dreams, and responsibilities. Let this day serve as a celebration of his life, his work, and the enduring strength of his words.
Happy Birthday, Abu Zafar Obaidullah — the voice of courage, the poet of our conscience.