Architect Mazharul Islam
Yesterday was your Happy 85th. We, Rafique, Tanna and Dalia, your children, as well as Nazia, are so proud of you. We are proud because you have given us a great life, more than we could ask for. We are proud of you, because you have taught us the best things in life. You have always wanted us to be Honest, Compassionate, Selfless, Truthful and most importantly, Conscious, both socially and politically.
We feel proud when we look at your creations like the (then) Public Library, the Art College and the NIPA building in the University area; as well as the National Archive in Agargaon.
Even when we step out of the city, we can see your beautiful complex, of the Jahangir Nagar University, in Savar.
There is no doubt that the city of Chittagong is also proud to have a whole University Complex to their credit.
We, as your children, remember, how you would come back home from work and make us laugh with your jokes. We would be astonished to hear you yelling at someone who discredited our country. We especially enjoyed the new words that you invented when you wanted to express something, as well as the hilarious verses you created.
You and Amma always welcomed any guest at anytime of the day and there was always enough food to provide for them.
Funnily enough, you were the softer of the two, whereas, Amma would make us adhere to the rules of the house. But no doubt, you liked the discipline at home.
The days of our lives have passed ever so swiftly and we have all reached our prime. And Abba, you have become so detached with life.
Remember, when we would joke and state that you look so much like our National Poet, Kazi Nazrul Islam. You would instantly respond, that, He gave you 'Ha te khori' when you were 2 years old and so he was your idol and mentor.
But, Abba, is this why you have become so silent and aloof? Is this why you don't want to participate in any activities relating to your profession and politics?
It is really heart-rending and over-whelming to see you like this.
Your grand-children, Ramit, Tanuja, Silma, Diran,Tusheet and Ayaan, all want to see you in your previous form. You are a source of inspiration and resourcefulness for them.
We all, including Nazia, Rahi and Azad, pray that you maintain your present health condition and be with us for many more years to come!!!
We believe you had a great 85th birthday, Dear Abba, on the 25th of December and remember we all love you more than anything in this world!!!
Comments