Simply sitting with him was an education: Tariq Anam Khan

The passing of legendary artist and cultural icon Mustafa Monwar has left a profound void in Bangladesh's cultural landscape. As artists and admirers across the country remember his extraordinary life and legacy, actor Tariq Anam Khan reflects on the mentor, polymath and generous soul whose influence shaped generations of creative minds.

"Mustafa Monwar was truly one of a kind. There will never be another like him," said Tariq Anam Khan.

"His presence extended across every branch of the arts. The breadth of his knowledge was extraordinary. He was deeply familiar with world literature, and simply sitting with him was an education in itself. You would always learn something new from him. That is why I say—Mustafa Monwar was unique."

Tariq recalled first becoming acquainted with Monwar through Bangladesh Television (BTV), long before they met in person.

"I first came across his name on Bangladesh Television. Seeing his name repeatedly on BTV left a lasting impression on me. It stayed with me from an early age. He also devoted a significant part of his life to working for children and creating meaningful programmes for them."

Their personal relationship developed years later through filmmaker Saidul Anam Tutul.

"Mustafa Monwar shared a close bond with Saidul Anam Tutul, who is my cousin. Through Tutul bhai, I came to know him personally. When he learnt that I had studied in Pune, India, he showed me immense affection and encouragement. From then on, I was fortunate to receive his warmth, guidance and love for many years."

Tariq said Monwar remained a constant source of encouragement for his theatre work.

"After Natyakendra was established, we received tremendous support and inspiration from him. He watched many of our productions. I still remember how much he appreciated 'Tughlaq' and how enthusiastically he encouraged us afterwards."

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Photo: Collected

"During his years at BTV and later at the Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy, I had many opportunities to spend time with him. His companionship enriched me immensely, and I learnt so much from him."

Describing Monwar's remarkable versatility, Tariq said there seemed to be no artistic discipline beyond his reach.

"Whenever there was a major state event, he was often involved in planning or shaping it. I was honoured to receive his appreciation, and we respected him deeply throughout our lives. He could sing, play musical instruments, paint and act. There was virtually no artistic discipline that he did not master."

He also recalled Monwar's lifelong admiration for Rabindranath Tagore.

"He had a profound love for Rabindranath and his works. He was a devoted admirer of Tagore's creations."

Among his most treasured memories is a personal gift from the veteran artist.

"He once sculpted a clay figure and gave it to me. I still have that sculpture today."

Concluding his tribute, Tariq reflected on the impact Monwar had on him and his theatre troupe.

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His constant encouragement helped me grow as an artiste: Nima Rahman

"He watched every one of my stage productions. That meant a great deal to our theatre troupe and to me. Praise from someone of his stature was an immense source of inspiration. Artists like Mustafa Monwar come along only once in a lifetime."