Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus has expressed deep sorrow over the death of Language Movement veteran Ahmed Rafiq, describing it as a significant loss for the nation’s culture and free thought.
Ahmed Rafiq, also known as a poet, essayist and Rabindra scholar, passed away on Wednesday night (2 October) while receiving treatment at the intensive care unit of Birdem Hospital in Dhaka. He was 96.
In a Facebook post on Thursday (3 October), the chief adviser said, “Ahmed Rafiq’s death is a loss for the country’s culture and free thought. Despite health challenges, he continued to work until his last days.”
Highlighting his contributions, Yunus noted that Ahmed Rafiq was a witness and an active voice of the Language Movement, as well as a prolific poet, researcher and leading figure in Rabindra studies. He authored more than one hundred books on Bangla literature, culture and the Language Movement. His work in Tagore studies earned recognition across both Bengals, and the Tagore Research Institute in Kolkata awarded him the title of “Rabindra Tattwacharya” in acknowledgment of his scholarship.
“Ahmed Rafiq’s life and work will inspire future generations. The nation will remember him,” the chief adviser said, extending condolences to his family members, admirers and the wider literary and cultural community.
