NOVEMBER 17, 1976 is a solemn day in the history of our region鈥檚 history, marked by sadness and respect. On this day, revered leader Maulana Abdul Hamid Khan Bhashani, often referred to as the uncrowned king of Bengal, passed away. His death meant not only the loss of a political figure but also the fall of a giant in the fight for the oppressed. Maulana Bhashani, widely known as Majlum Jananeta (leader of the oppressed), was a distinctive political figure who dedicated his life to advocating for the rights of the marginalised. His legacy continues to inspire generations today. Maulana Bhashani was born on December 12, 1880, in Dhangara village in Sirajganj district and faced great challenges from an early age that shaped his character and worldview. His education began at a local madrasa, but he later pursued higher studies in Calcutta and Deoband, where he acquired a sound knowledge of Islamic theology. During his academic career, he developed a political consciousness that would eventually make him one of Bengal鈥檚 leading political leaders.
Bhashani鈥檚 political career began during the anti-British movement. He took an active part in Mahatma Gandhi鈥檚 non-cooperation movement and was a supporter of the Khilafat movement. From the 1920s onwards, his resistance to British colonial rule increased, and his struggle later expanded to include opposition to the Pakistani regime. He believed that true independence could only be achieved by ensuring the rights of the oppressed, which motivated him to devote his life to advocating the causes of peasants and workers. In 1949, Maulana Bhashani was a key figure in the founding of the Awami Muslim League, which later became known as the Awami League. However, in 1957, he broke away from the party and founded the National Awami Party. Through NAP, he became a strong advocate of socialism and democracy and led active resistance against the Pakistani government.
Bhashani consistently took the lead in defending farmers鈥� rights. During the Tebhaga movement of the 1940s, he championed the cause of farmers and opposed the exploitative landlord system. He fought for farmers鈥� demands to keep two-thirds of their crops, which had a significant impact on the agricultural community and cemented his reputation as a people鈥檚 leader. In 1976, he launched a large-scale movement against the construction of the Farakka Dam in India, which had caused significant damage to agriculture and the environment in northern Bangladesh. His call to break the Farakka barrage was instrumental in defending the interests of farmers, and his movement had lasting political, social, and economic impact.
During the Liberation War of 1971, Maulana Bhashani gave strong moral support to the cause of independence. Although he did not directly participate in the war, he stood by the freedom fighters and helped rally international support for the liberation of Bangladesh. Even after independence, he continued to advocate for the welfare of the common people and remained a vocal critic of the government鈥檚 injustices, always seeking justice and equity. Maulana Bhashani was a leader characterised by selflessness, honesty, and dedication. He believed in the fusion of socialism and democracy and fought throughout his life for the liberation of the oppressed. He was never afraid to call out the wrongdoing of those in power. His political philosophy was rooted in the belief that society鈥檚 most vulnerable should be at the centre of any struggle for basic human rights.
Maulana Bhashani is known for his simplicity and moral integrity. Every action he took was marked by deep compassion for humanity. From his life, new generations can learn that leadership is not about retaining power but standing alongside the people. He showed that a true leader fights for the rights of the oppressed and challenges injustice at every turn. For today鈥檚 youth who seek to embody true leadership, the life and ideals of Maulana Bhashani provide a timeless guide. In essence, Maulana Abdul Hamid Khan Bhashani鈥檚 life transcended the realm of politics 鈥� his struggle was for humanity. The anniversary of his death commemorates his tireless struggle, his principles, and his unwavering commitment to the cause of the oppressed. His life remains a shining example for future generations of how to persistently pursue justice, truth, and human rights.
听
Dr Md Shahadat Hossain is a professor of biochemistry and molecular biology at Jahangirnagar University.