Eminent litterateur, dramatist and film director Humayun Ahmed celebrates his 63rd birthday today. But unlike previous years, he will not celebrate the day at his Dhanmondi residence ‘Dokhin Hawa’ as he is undergoing medical treatment under Dr. Stephen R. Veach at New York’s Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center. One of the leading writers of the country has already undergone a second round of chemotherapy as part of his treatment. Earlier, he left Bangladesh for treatment on September 13.
Although Ahmed will not be present physically, the living room of ‘Dokhin Hawa’ will be filled with flowers sent by well wishers, informed the writer’s younger brother Ahsan Habib.
Ahmed was born on November 13, 1948 in Netrokona’s Kutubpur village. After teaching at the University of Dhaka for two years, the talented writer began to take deep interest in making TV plays –many of which created a nationwide stir when they were aired. Ahmed then tried his hand at film making; and celluloid work “Aaguner Poroshmoni:” won him a record number of National Awards. He went on to make “Srabon Megher Din”, “Chondrokotha”, “Shyamol Chhaya”, “Dui Duyari” and other silver screen features. His latest movie endeavor “Ghetu Putro Komola” which he announced as his last — still awaits release.
Ahmed had earlier won the Ekushey Padak and Bangla Academy awards for his literary works. He won the hearts of millions as the creator of characters like Himu and Misir Ali.
Other notable works by the author include “Nondito Noroke”, “Shonkhonil Karagar”, “Jochhna O Jononir Golpo’” ‘Kobi’, “Kothao Keu Nei” and “Eishob Dinratri”.
The talented individual also gained a huge fan following and critical acclaim for making TV plays such as “Oyomoy”, “Eishob Dinratri” and “Bohubrihi”.
Ahmed will spend his 63rd birthday in a two-storied rented apartment in New York’s Jamaica neighborhood, which is home to many expatriate Bangladeshis. His wife Meher Afroze Shawon, sons Nishad and Ninid and Annyadin editor Mazharul Islam will be present to celebrate the occasion.
Ahmed, who is suffering from colon cancer, however, remains busy with writing during his stay in the US. He spends his leisure hours writing or painting. He has already written two dramas at a local library, where he is now a member. He is also a regular contributor to a newspaper. In one of his write ups, Ahmed expressed his interest in helping to build a Cancer Hospital and Research Center in Bangladesh of an international standard once he returns home.
