Staff Correspondent

The Ministry of Cultural Affairs organized a solemn memorial meeting today to honor the legendary poet, journalist, and critic Hasan Hafizur Rahman.

The event commenced at 10:00 AM on Thursday in the conference room of the Ministry of Cultural Affairs and was presided over by the Secretary of the Ministry, Ms. Kaniz Maula

The poet's daughter, Ms. Esha Hasan, graced the occasion as the guest of honour, reflecting closely on her father's personal life, cherished family memories, and his profound literary and intellectual journeys. Additionally, distinguished poet Majid Mahmud participated as the keynote speaker, presenting an exhaustive discussion on Hasan Hafizur Rahman's life, literary masterpieces, and expansive philosophical world.

Delivering her presidential address, Cultural Secretary Ms. Kaniz Maula remarked that it is rare for creative writers to bridge the gap between literature and statecraft, highlighting Hasan Hafizur Rahman's unique position in the nation's history.

She said, not all poets can deeply connect themselves with state thoughts, but Hasan Hafizur Rahman was one of those rare personalities who contributed outstandingly to state philosophy and society-building alongside his literary creations.

She further noted that his intellectual depth was immensely enriched by a profound understanding of European state-building processes, religion, history, and contemporary political dynamics. This visionary perspective regarding both state and society ultimately elevated him to a uniquely distinguished status.

During her speech, the Cultural Secretary specifically recalled the intellectually significant relationship between Hasan Hafizur Rahman and the then-President Ziaur Rahman. She emphasized that the poet's progressive thoughts and constructive advice played a highly positive and defining role in shaping the state policies of that era. Expressing concern over contemporary societal shifts, she lamented that the degradation of moral values and the pervasive influence of artificiality are becoming increasingly visible in modern society. Consequently, she noted that the creative, idealistic, and intellectual environment of Hasan Hafizur Rahman’s era remains an exemplary model for the current generation to follow.

Emphasizing the ministry's upcoming roadmap, Ms. Kaniz Maula stated that the memorial meeting successfully shed light on many unexplored dimensions of the poet's life and work

She firmly promised that effective and necessary initiatives would be undertaken from her institutional position to properly establish his social and state philosophies at the national level. Concluding her address, she urged contemporary researchers, litterateurs, and the younger generation to engage in extensive research and documentation.