Dr Zafar Iqbal recalls post-1975 Bangladesh, where one couldn't utter the name of Bangabandhu
Eminent author and educationist Dr Zafar Iqbal described the graphic novel "Mujib" as an extraordinary document, that will remain in history as a reference point for kids and young adults who want to know about The Father of the Nation, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman.
He shared this during the unveiling ceremony of the ninth and tenth editions of the graphic novel today, based on the unfinished memoirs of Bangabandhu.
The novel series, published by CRI (Centre for Research and Information) publications, is a sought-after find for readers at this year's Ekushey Book Fair.
"Children who are yet to grasp 'heavier' books, can enjoy the vivid illustrations here," he said.
He also mentioned that while growing up, he really enjoyed reading comics.
He appreciated the publishers -- Radwan Mujib Siddiq, Trustee, CRI and grandson of Bangabandhu, and Nasrul Hamid, State Minister for the Ministry of Power, Energy, and Mineral Resources, for taking this great initiative.
The author also shed light on the fact that an entire generation in this country grew up without truly knowing Bangabandhu and his contributions towards building the nation.
During the event held today at the CRI stall, lead artist Syed Rashad Imam Tanmoy, along with story designer and dialogue writer Siddik Ahmed, were also present, alongside the entire team.
Graphic novels portraying famous people in different countries of the world are common practice. However, this is the first attempt of this sort in Bangladesh.
The first edition of "Mujib" was published on March 17, 2015. The following editions came out with the support of the research wing of Bangladesh Awami League, CRI.
The series has concluded with the ninth and tenth editions of this innovative project.
"It took them seven years to complete the series, applauds to them," shared Dr Zafar Iqbal. "I request them to make a compilation of these books, retouching some of the illustrations." Dr Zafar Iqbal also noted that the novel's team has improved immensely since the inception of "Mujib".
The ninth edition, titled, "Mission Punjab" includes several steps of forming Awami League as a political party. It contains the background description of how Huseyn Shaheed Suhrawardy and Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman met in Punjab and formed Nikhil Pakistan Awami Muslim League.
The tenth edition, "Muktir Pothe" consists of the intense portrayal of Bangbandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman's imprisoned times, his hunger strike, and release from jail – followed by victory in provincial elections and the historic six-points movement.
Dr Zafar Iqbal reminisced the dark chapter of post-1975 Bangladesh, where no one could even utter the name of Bangabandhu.
"When I came back to Bangladesh in 1994, I noticed that the name 'Bangabandhu' was not mentioned on television, which shocked me. The man who called for independence was virtually eliminated from the country," he said.
Author Anisul Haque was also present at the event. He insisted that "Asampta Atmajibonee", "Karagarer Rojnamcha", and "Amar Dekha Noya Chin" are must-read books for every citizen of this country.
Editor of the novel, Shibu Kumer Shill, informed that Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina had supported and helped with verifying all the information.
The graphic novel is available at the CRI stall (number 735 and 736) at the book fair.