Ekushey Padak-winning artist Mustafa Monwar. File Photo

DHAKA, June 29, 2026 (BSS) - Eminent cultural personality, pioneer of puppet arts in Bangladesh and Ekushey Padak-winning artist Mustafa Monwar today passed away due to age-related complications,.

He was 90. 

Mustafa Monwar breathed his last at around 8:30 am while undergoing treatment at a private hospital in the capital, his personal assistant Rubel Mia said.

He is survived by his wife, a son and a daughter, besides numerous relatives, admirers and well-wishers.

According to family sources, Mustafa Monwar was admitted to the hospital on June 14 last after suffering from various health related complications, including pneumonia. He was undergoing treatment in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) at the private facility for the last few days.

Mustafa Monwar was born on September 1, 1935 to a renowned family of poet Golam Mostafa and Jamila Khatun.

After completing his studies in fine arts at Calcutta Art College, he returned to the country and devoted himself to teaching, art practice and cultural activities. 

In addition to painting, his role in taking the puppet art of Bangladesh to new heights is particularly memorable.

The renowned painter had an important contribution to the planning and production of Bangladesh Television's popular children's programme 'Natun Kuri'. 

He also played an active role in cultural activities during different movements from the Language Movement to the country’s War of Liberation in 1971.

During his career, he served various important positions in different institutions, including Bangladesh Television, Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy, National Media Institute and Bangladesh Film Development Corporation (BFDC).

In recognition of his outstanding contribution to art and culture, Mustafa Monwar was awarded with the Ekushey Padak in 2004 and Sultan Gold Medal in 2018.

Mustafa Monwar's death has cast a shadow of deep sorrow in the country's art, literature and cultural arena.

In separate messages, Prime Minister Tarique Rahman and Information and Broadcasting Minister Zahir Uddin Swapon today expressed deep shock at the death of Mustafa Monwar.

Besides, different cultural organisations, artists, writers, political figures and government officials expressed deep shock at the death of Mustafa Monwar and remembered his contribution to the country's art and culture arena.