Remembering Fazlul Haque: The pioneer who brought film journalism to Bangladesh
Today, Sunday, October 26, marks the death anniversary of Fazlul Haque, a visionary who transformed Bangladesh's film culture and journalism landscape. Born on May 26, 1930 in Bogura, Fazlul Haque left an indelible mark on the nation's cultural history before passing away on this day in 1990 in Kolkata.
In 1950, Haque launched "Cinema" magazine from Bogura—a groundbreaking achievement that made it Bangladesh's first-ever film publication. This pioneering effort opened the doors to film journalism in the country, creating a new field that would flourish for decades to come. This year holds double significance as it marks 75 years of film journalism in Bangladesh, a journey that began with Haque's visionary initiative. He also earned recognition as the director of "Son of Pakistan" (President), the nation's first children's film, demonstrating his commitment to diverse storytelling. The Fazlul Haque Memorial Committee continues his legacy by presenting annual awards to outstanding individuals in film direction and film journalism. This year's recipients are acclaimed director Raihan Rafi and respected journalist Alimuzzaman.
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Fazlul Haque's patriotism shone brightly during the 1971 Liberation War. He actively participated as an organiser and freedom fighter while contributing his creative talents to the independence movement. His powerful commentaries for Swadhin Bangla Betar Kendra inspired countless listeners during those crucial months. For Akashvani Kolkata, he wrote and directed "Padma-Meghna-Jamuna", a significant wartime play. Operating under the pseudonym "Moni Haque", he hosted numerous radio programs that kept the spirit of liberation alive.
From 1976 onwards, he resided in Kolkata, where he produced two films under his production banner Chitrosarathi. Notable among these was "Sat Bhai Champa", an adaptation of Bangladesh's beloved folk tale, preserving cultural heritage through cinema. Through his family and the institutions bearing his name, Fazlul Haque's vision for Bangladesh's film industry and cultural development continues to thrive.
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