Zainul Abedin’s 111th birth anniversary celebrates a titan of Bangladeshi art and culture
Today marks the 111th birth anniversary of Shilpacharya Zainul Abedin, one of Bangladesh’s most celebrated artists. Born in Kishoreganj on December 29, 1914, he became a defining figure in South Asian art through his powerful works and dedication to cultural heritage.
Zainul Abedin discovered his love for fine arts as a teenager. In 1932, he enrolled at the Kolkata Government Art School, where he graduated with top honours. His early career took a defining turn during the Bengal famine of 1943, when his haunting sketches captured the suffering of millions and brought him widespread recognition.
In 1949, he played a pivotal role in founding the Dhaka Art Institute, later serving as its principal. His influence extended beyond Bangladesh, as he helped establish the fine arts department at Peshawar University. The 1970s saw him create two major narrative scrolls, Nabanna and Manpura, which remain iconic in Bangladeshi culture. Throughout his life, Abedin blended traditional and Western artistic techniques. He also championed local crafts and founded the Charu O Karu Shilpi Sangram Parishad in the 1970s to support artists. His contributions were formally recognised in 1959 when the Pakistan government awarded him the Hilal-e-Imtiaz, the country’s second-highest civilian honour.
Zainul Abedin’s legacy endures through his art, institutions, and influence on generations of artists. His works, particularly the famine sketches and narrative scrolls, continue to be studied and admired. The anniversary serves as a reminder of his lasting impact on Bangladesh’s cultural landscape.
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