People from all walks of life pay tribute to renowned writer, educationist, intellectual and politician Badruddin Umar at Shaheed Minar. Photo: BSS

DHAKA, Sept 8, 2025 (BSS) - People from all walks of life today gathered at the Central Shaheed Minar this morning to pay their final respects to eminent writer, academic, intellectual and politician Badruddin Umar. 

His body was brought to the Shaheed Minar at 10:00 am, where writers, politicians, researchers, journalists and educationists as well offered floral tributes in honour of his lifelong contributions.

Among those paying homage was intellectual and thinker Farhad Mazhar, who remembered Badruddin Umar as a towering figure, saying he will always be remembered, and that much can be learned from the path he carved throughout his life. 

He added that many believed the Marxist and revolutionary stream had ended, but that is not true. The recent political developments in Bangladesh, especially on August 5, have shown clear signs of a revival of that stream.

Farhad Mazhar further said that this ideological narrative remains alive and active within the country's political forces.

Social Welfare and Women and Children Affairs Adviser Sharmeen S Murshid, after paying tribute, said that with the passing of Badruddin Umar, an important chapter in the nation's history has come to an end. The ideals and philosophy he upheld will remain a priceless resource in our historical discourse, she said. 

Noting him as a resolute, idealistic, and uncompromising figure, she said "We will remember him for those ideals and philosophies that are worthy of dedicating a life to." 

She continued, "His absence will be deeply felt, but his writings will continue to serve as a guide for future generations."

Among those who paid their respects were: Education Adviser Professor Dr Chowdhury Rafiqul Abrar, Cultural Affairs Adviser Mostofa Sarwar Farooki, Fisheries and Livestock Adviser Farida Akhtar, Chief Adviser's Special Assistant Faiz Ahmad Taiyeb, BNP Joint Secretary General Habibun Nabi Khan Sohel, Director General of the Press Institute of Bangladesh Faruk Wasif, Director General of Bangla Academy Mohammad Azam, and Managing Director and Chief Editor of Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha Mahbub Morshed. 

National Citizen Party (NCP) Convener Nahid Islam and leaders of various political, social, and cultural organizations also paid their tribute to Badruddin Umar. 

Following the tribute, his Namaz-e-Janaza will be held at Dhaka University Central Mosque after Zuhr prayers, after which his body will be taken to Jurain Graveyard for burial.

Badruddin Umar, President of the National Liberation Council, was born on December 20, 1931, in Burdwan, then under British India. 

After suffering from various age-related complications for a long period, he passed away on Sunday at 10:05 am at Bangladesh Specialized Hospital in the capital at the age of 94 years.