Humayun Ahmed's birthday celebrated

Eminent citizens and fans of late litterateur Humayun Ahmed release balloons to inaugurate “Humayun Mela 2012”, organised by Channel i on its premises in the capital yesterday in observance of the writer's 64th birth anniversary. Photo: Focus Bangla

Admirers and well-wishers of the late litterateur Humayun Ahmed celebrated his 64th birth anniversary with elaborate programmes and festivities at home and aboard yesterday.
On the occasion, the publishers of Humayun's books arranged a 12-day book fair on the Public Library premises in the capital.
Humayun's mother Ayesha Fayez inaugurated the fair amid the presence of his widow Meher Afroz Shaon, family members, publishers, writers, and artists, among others.
An emotion-choked Ayesha Fayez told the inaugural ceremony that she barely felt the absence of his son for the love his admirers gave to her son, who died on July 19 this year.
“The presence and love of Humayun's fans and well-wishers have made me feel that my son is still living in the hearts of many people.”
The inaugural ceremony also included memorial discussions, street plays, and recitations to recall contributions of the Bengali author, who was also an admired dramatist and filmmaker.
Meanwhile, private television Channel i arranged "Humayun Mela 2012" on its office premises to celebrate Humayun's birthday. The TV station also declared his birthday as "Himu Day".
In New York, a five-day memorial festival for Humayun Ahmed is under way. Muktadhara Foundation, the organisation which hosts a Bangla book fair in New York every year, is holding the festival.
It started on November 9, featuring more than 100 of Humayun's books, screening of his films and TV plays and rendition of songs composed by him.
Humayun Ahmed was born on November 13, 1948 in Netrakona.