Today marks the first death anniversary of the legendary lyricist, director, producer, and screenwriter, Gazi Mazharul Anwar, who left an indelible mark on the world of Bangla music and cinema. He was a prolific artiste who composed over twenty thousand songs during his illustrious career, with three of his compositions earning a coveted spot on the BBC's list of the twenty best Bangla songs of all time.

Following his passing, his daughter, Dithi Anwar, also a singer, has taken up the mantle of preserving her father's musical heritage. Already, three editions of the book "Olpo Kothar Golpo Gaan" have been published, containing his lyrical gems. Work is in progress to unveil 17 songs written by him, with five already recorded and set to be released as music videos.

"Plans are underway to establish a music academy in his honour, and I made a request to the government to include my father's name on roads and textbooks," said Dithi. 

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Gazi Mazharul Anwar no more

Born in 1943 in Cumilla's Taleshwar village, Mazharul Anwar started writing for Radio Pakistan in 1964. For almost six decades, he penned stories of patriotism, war, love, and sacrifice through his songs.

His work in Bangla cinema began with the film "Ayna O Oboshishto" by legendary director Subhash Dutta. His lyrics for the song "Akasher Haate Achhe Ekrash Neel" are an all-time classic.

On his 78th birthday, Mazharul Anwar published a book, "Olpo Kothar Golpo Gaan" in 2021, which featured 200 of his songs.

"I have led a happy and content life. I have no regrets," Anwar said, in his last interview with The Daily Star in 2021. 

Some of his masterpieces are "Achhen Amar Moktar", "Ektara Tui Desh Er Kotha Bol Re Ebar Bol", "Ganer Khatay Swaralipi Likhe", "Shudhu Gaan Geye Porichoy", "Ei Mon Tomake Dilam", "Chokher Nojor Emni Koira", amongst others.