Jasimuddin

Jasimuddin Biography

Jasimuddin was a noted writer associated with Bengali literature in the 20^th century. Best known for his rendition of Bengali folklore in his literary works, he was also called Polli Kobi. He excelled as a Bengali poet, songwriter, prose writer, folklore collector and was also known as a radio personality. He is equally popular in India and Bangladesh. Jasimuddin is a recipient of numerous awards and honours including – a honorary doctorate by Rabindra Bharati University, President's Award for Pride of Performance Pakistan (1958), Ekushey Padak, Bangladesh (1976) and was posthumously awarded Independence Day Award (1978) - highest state award given by the government of Bangladesh.

Jasimuddin was born on 30 October 1903 in Tambulkhana, Faridpur of Bengal. Now this place belongs to Bangladesh. His father Ansaruddin Mollah was a school-teacher. His mother was Amina Khatun. He graduated from University of Calcutta in 1929 and his MA in 1931. Following his Master’s degree he worked as a collector of folk literature for next 6 years. He worked in association with Dinesh Chandra Sen, noted Bengali writer and researcher of Bengali folklore. As a folklore collector, his collection includes more than 10,000 folk songs. Thus he contributed to the compilation works of Purbo-Bongo Gitika, Jari Gaan and Murshida Gaan. Later he worked as a lecturer, followed by Department of Information and broadcasting in 1944, where he retired as Deputy Director in 1962.

His literal career began at a very young age. His poem Kabar earned him recognition during his college days. He used rural life and nature as the main themes of his literal works. Nokshi Kanthar Maath is one of his major works. Apart from poems, he has also penned a few song lyrics in Bengali language. During the Liberation War of Bangladesh, he wrote some patriotic songs. After partition he moved to Bangladesh.

Published: N/A

Updated: April 03, 2016