Shah Alam Shazu

Most 90’s children would fondly remember the character of Baker Bhai from Kothao Keu Nei (1992). The man who played an integral role in bringing this legendary character to our TV screens, Mohammad Barkatullah, is no more among us. The producer, who was undergoing treatment at Green Life Medical College and Hospital, breathed his last on August 3, 2020. He had tested positive for COVID-19 after his wife Zeenat tested positive for the virus and was admitted to the hospital due to high fever. He was in ventilation when he unfortunately suffered a stroke.

Known for masterpieces like Shokal Shondha, Dhakay Thaki and Nokkhotrer Raat, Mohammad Barkatullah also served as the General Manager of Bangladesh Television for a while, before his retirement.

Suborna Mustafa, who played Muna in Kothao Keu Nei – a role that marks a milestone in her career – recalls her memories with Mohammad Barkatullah. “Bidding goodbyes are always tough, especially when you have so memories worth cherishing,” mentions the actor. “I have learnt a lot from a creative genius like him. I have lot of fond memories with him, not only from the sets of Kothao Keu Nei, but also from every time that I met him otherwise.”

Freedom fighter, renowned actor and former Cultural Affairs Minister Asaduzzaman Noor also reminisced his days with Mohammad Barkatullah. “We have spent decades as peers, and thoroughly enjoyed every step of the way. This news is certainly hard for me to accept,” he shared. “He was very keen on achieving perfection and his work was always his utmost priority. His contribution to the Bangladeshi television industry is immense and unforgettable.”

Noted actor Azizul Hakim worked alongside him in multiple productions. “We worked together in Nokkhotrer Raat, among many other projects. He was always fully absorbed in his work, and always looked for improvements,” he reminisced. “Losing a close confidante is always disheartening and this loss was no exception.”

“I worked with him on many tele-fictions, and each one of his creations has brought me accolades,” says Abul Hayat. “I will always remember him as a man with a golden mind, who helped redefine the definition of entertainment in the industry.”

Mohammad Barkatullah rests at the Martyred Intellectuals’ Graveyard in Mirpur. He has left behind his wife acclaimed dancer Zeenat Barkatullah, and his daughters, Bijori Barkatullah and Kajori Barkatullah – the former being a popular actor and media personality.

PHOTO: Collected