Remembering Humayun Ahmed at 77 with films and tributes

The 77th birth anniversary of beloved writer and filmmaker Humayun Ahmed is being celebrated with tributes across television, theatres, and social media. From special screenings to an AI-made short film, his legacy as a storyteller continues to inspire and move audiences.

A 10-minute short, "Secret Recipe: Humayun Ahmed", premiered on November 12 via What The Story's social media platforms. Directed by Ashif Entaz Rabi and researched by Nuhiatul Islam Labib, the documentary blends archival visuals and AI-generated imagery to explore Humayun's life, storytelling and characters. The team calls it "a ten-minute attempt to understand Humayun Ahmed."

Photo: Collected

Channel i has lined up an all-day celebration, beginning with "Gaan Diye Shuru" featuring songs from Humayun's films performed by Mughdu, Ananya Acharya and Pranti. A book fair organised by Anyaprokash will also be held at the channel's campus from 11am to 12:30pm, actor Jayanta Chattopadhyay will share memories of working with Humayun, followed by a 3:05pm broadcast of "Noy Nombor Bipod Shongket".

For younger audiences, Duronto TV will air "Botol Bhoot" at 10pm. Adapted from one of Humayun's stories, the film follows a boy named Humayun who discovers a ghost in a bottle resembling Rabindranath Tagore. The ensemble cast includes Mamunur Rashid, Jhuna Chowdhury, Azad Abul Kalam, Abdullah Rana, Khalilur Rahman Kaderi, Rit, Joyet, Neel, Zarif, Anindya, Nirjon and Anon.

Photo: Collected

Masranga TV's "Ranga Sokal" will feature veteran actor Dr Ejajul Islam, who will revisit his collaborations with Humayun Ahmed and share behind-the-scenes memories.

Meanwhile, Star Cineplex is hosting "Humayun Ahmed Week" (November 7–13) at its Dhaka and Chattogram branches, screening four of his acclaimed film adaptations, including "Daruchini Dwip" and "Amar Ache Jol".

A commemorative event planned at the Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy — part of the Culture Ministry's Celebrating Bangladeshi Legends series — was postponed due to unforeseen circumstances. Organisers have said a new date will be announced soon.