Kali O Kalam awards young poet and writers

Kali O Kalam, a reputed literary magazine, recognised four young wordsmiths with the Young Poet and Writer Award 2015, held on January 29 at the main auditorium of Bangladesh National Museum. The winners are – Shameem Hossain in poetry (Dhaner Dhatri); Imran Khan in short stories and novels (Dhatab Somoy); Ranjana Biswas in essay, research and drama (Bangladesh-er Palki O Palki Bahok) and Salek Khokon in Liberation War based research and essay book (Juddha Din-er Goddo O Pramanya).

The programme commenced with a welcome speech by Luva Nahid Choudhury, director general of Bengal Foundation. She also emceed the entire event. Renowned Indian novelist and musicologist Shankarlal Bhattacharya attended as chief guest while noted litterateur Selina Hossain was special guest. Chairman of the editorial panel of the magazine, Professor Emeritus Anisuzzaman chaired the event, while Bengal Foundation chairman Abul Khair gave a Publisher's address, and Kali O Kalam editor Abul Hasnat delivered vote of thanks.

Dhaka University Professor Bishwajit Ghosh formally declared the names of this year's awardees. He, along with poet Mahboob Sadik read out brief sketches of the winners. Professor Bishwajit Ghosh, Professor Mahboob Sadik, writer Subrata Barua, poet Nurul Huda and litterateur Imdadul Haq Milon were judges for the year.   

Each winner received Taka 1 lakh along with a certificate and a crest. A documentary on the previous award ceremonies of the event was also shown at the beginning.

Shankarlal Bhattacharya said, “The infrastructure that 'Kali O Kalam' has created so far in the sphere of Bangla Literature is outstanding. The trend has been mobilised through recognising and conferring awards on young poet and writers.” Selina Hossain said, “Professor Emeritus Anisuzzaman, Poet Shamsur Rahman and others are the pioneers of bringing the chronological history ranging from 1952 to 1971 of Bangladesh. The award-winning poets and writers are carrying forward that distinctive legacy/trend of Bangla Literature in their writings.”

Later, renowned Tagore singer Shama Rahman performed music while noted elocutionist Hasan Arif recited poems at the event.
Monthly literary magazine “Kali O Kalam” initiated the award in 2008.