Published: 11:32 PM, 27 August 2026
Syedur Rahman: The Socrates of Bangladesh
Legacy & Kinship: Shafik Rehman and Sayedur Rahman's emotion-filled reunion. Photo: Internet
Dr. Jesmin Chowdhury
Since the dawn of human civilization, the collective consciousness of humanity has been profoundly enriched by the discourses, reflections, and philosophical insights of visionary thinkers across the globe. When we turn the pages of human history, we are inevitably drawn to the luminary figures- Aristotle, Plato, Socrates, Jean-Paul Sartre, Friedrich Nietzsche whose intellectual depth and timeless concepts have illuminated minds across generations.
In much the same way, whenever we reflect upon the social and intellectual evolution of Bangladesh, a few towering icons stand out with unmistakable brilliance. Syedur Rahman remains one of those immortal philosophers, an intellectual titan who sculpted the mindscape of a nation with the enduring values of self-esteem, enlightenment, and progressive thought. Those familiar with his luminous legacy often honor him with a moniker of high distinction: "The Socrates of Bangladesh."
A Stellar Academic Journey
Syedur Rahman (1909–1987) was an eminent educationist, a visionary philosopher, and a dedicated social reformer. Born on May 1, 1909, in Nabinagar under Brahmanbaria district, his life was marked by academic brilliance from early youth. After achieving first division in his secondary school examinations, he went on to earn a rare double distinction at the University of Dhaka securing First Class First position in both his Bachelor of Arts (Honors) and Master of Arts in Philosophy in 1931 and 1932, respectively.
He embarked on his career by joining the Department of Philosophy at Rajshahi College. For Syedur Rahman, philosophy was far more than an academic discipline; it was a lifelong passion and a personal calling that shaped his worldview until his final days.
A Life of Leadership and Impact
Syedur Rahman’s professional path was as varied as it was impactful. He served as a professor at Calcutta Islamia College (now Maulana Abul Kalam Azad University), as Superintendent of Baker Hostel, and as a Special Officer in the Education Department.
It was during his tenure at Baker Hostel that he mentored a young Sheikh Mujibur Rahman. Decades later, Bangabandhu fondly recalled his teacher in The Unfinished Memoirs, praising Syedur Rahman’s vital contributions to the academic and character development of his students.
Between 1947 and 1952, Syedur Rahman taught at Dhaka College and other premier government institutions. In 1957, he traveled to London on a prestigious Commonwealth Scholarship. Upon returning to Bangladesh, he continued to shape the higher education landscape, serving as a professor and principal at institutions such as Chittagong College and Eden College.
Unyielding Moral Courage
An anecdote recorded by former bureaucrat Siddiqur Rahman on page 171 of his memoir, Shotabdir Sriti (Memories of a Century), captures the formidable moral fiber of Syedur Rahman.
During the Pakistan era, East Pakistan Governor Monayem Khan convened a meeting with the college principals of Dhaka. Displeased with admission trends, the Governor questioned brusquely:
"I don't understand what you people are doing. You are even admitting students with third division!"
Unflinching in the face of authority, the upright scholar replied with dry wit and sharp insight:
"Where will we get future governors from if students with third division are not admitted?"
This sharp response remains a celebrated testament to his fearless nature, moral integrity, and refusal to bow to political arrogance.
Mutual Respect with the Father of the Nation
Another moving moment occurred after the independence of Bangladesh, when Syedur Rahman visited Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, then serving as President of the Republic.
The moment the statesman saw his former teacher enter the room, Bangabandhu immediately rose from his chair, offered his profound respects, and personally escorted Syedur Rahman to sit in the President’s own seat. Overwhelmed by the reverence shown by his former student, Syedur Rahman listened as Bangabandhu added with deep humility:
"Sir, whenever you wish to meet me, please just give me a call over the phone. I will come to visit you myself."
Philanthropy and Service to the Nation
Following independence, Syedur Rahman taught at the University of Dhaka from 1972 until 1981. With the remuneration earned during these years, he established a welfare foundation dedicated to training students in public speaking, academic discourse, and advocacy for educational advancement.
He was equally a pioneer of women’s empowerment in higher education. His visionary efforts led to the establishment of Tejgaon College (formerly Tejgaon Women’s College), where he served as honorary principal until 1978.
A dynamic organizer, he presided over the Bangladesh Philosophical Association from 1973 to 1983. During the 1971 Liberation War, he set up a medical clinic at his ancestral home to treat wounded freedom fighters risking his own safety to support the struggle for independence. In his native village, he established local banks, community seed repositories, schools, and colleges, leaving behind a legacy of community upliftment.
A Universalist Soul
Deeply versed in the Holy Quran, Syedur Rahman harbored a broad-minded, inclusive affection for people of all faiths. To him, humanitarian service was the purest form of spiritual devotion. Contemporaries remembered him as an avid sports enthusiast who excelled at tennis and bridge. His intellectual curiosity took him across the globe, visiting nations including England, France, Russia, and India. His legacy of public service lives on through his family; his son, Shafik Rehman, is a veteran journalist who founded the landmark publication Jaijaidin.
Syedur Rahman passed away on August 28, 1987, at Holy Family Hospital in Dhaka. On his death anniversary, we offer our profound respects to his memory.
A Call for National Recognition
As we honor his legacy, it is our sincere hope that the Government of Bangladesh will formally recognize the monumental contributions of this world-renowned philosopher and visionary educationist by conferring upon him a posthumous national award—giving "The Socrates of Bangladesh" the immortal recognition he so richly deserves.
Dr. Jesmin Chowdhury is Editor-in-Chief,
The Asian Age.
