Helal Hafiz, a poet of rebellion and love, passes away

 
Renowned Bangladeshi poet Helal Hafiz known for his experiment in combining rebellion with love in his poems passed away on Friday at the age of 76. He was brought dead to Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU) in the afternoon.

Poet Helal Hafiz was found unconscious at a residential hostel in capital Shahbagh area. "He was pronounced dead as he was rushed there," said Jatiya Press Club (JPC) General Secretary Ayub Bhuiyan.

A journalist by background Hafiz was a permanent member of the club, which appeared to be his virtual abode for years together.

His Namaz-e-janaza will be held on the JPC premises after Zohr prayers today and later he will be buried at Mirpur Martyred Intellectual Graveyard at Mirpur.

Helal Hafiz had been suffering from multiple health issues, including glaucoma, kidney complications, diabetes, and neurological disorders, for an extended period.

Born on 7 October, 1948, in Netrokona, Helal Hafiz rose to prominence with the publication of his first poetry collection 'Je Jale Agun Jwale' in 1986. The book became a phenomenon, reprinted over 33 times to date. Alongside his literary career, Helal Hafiz also worked as a journalist for many years, including at Dainik Jugantor and other publications.

The poet gained widespread recognition during Bangladesh's anti-autocracy movement with his iconic poem 'Nishiddho Sampadokiyo' (Prohibited Editorial). Its famous line, "Ekhon Joubon Jar, Michile Jabar Tar Shrestho Shomoy" ("Now is the prime time for the young to join the march"), echoed in countless rallies and slogans during the movement.

His literary works earned a lot of feathers in his hate in the form of awards and recognitions while he won Bangla Academy Award in 2913.
He made his debut as a journalist in the now defunct Dainik Purbodesh in 1972 while he was still a university student. His last work place was the Daily Jugantar.