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Reminiscing Humayun Ahmed’s most unforgettable characters

Humayun Ahmed, Bangladesh’s beloved “magician of words,” crafted stories that transcended the pages of his books to become an integral part of Bangladeshi cinema and television. With a unique talent for creating compelling characters, he left behind a legacy that continues to captivate audiences even years after his passing. Today, on what would have been his 76th birthday, we journey through some of Humayun Ahmed’s most iconic characters. From rural dreamers to philosophical minds, his creations have not only entertained but also stirred deep emotions, etching unforgettable memories in the hearts of fans.
PHOTOS: COLLECTED
Each character, whether a fearless freedom fighter or a philosophical wanderer, adds to the profound impact the writer has had on the audience.
SHAH ALAM SHAZU
Moti: A symbol of rural spirit
In Srabon Megher Din (1999), Humayun Ahmed introduced Moti, a simple village man portrayed by Zahid Hasan. Set in the lush countryside, this film struck a chord with audiences and became one of Ahmed’s most successful cinematic ventures. Moti’s character, though initially popular among readers, gained even more fame on screen, where Zahid Hasan’s portrayal brought Moti’s innocence and resilience to life, leaving an indelible impact on audiences and Zahid Hasan’s career alike.
Shuvro: The brilliant outsider
Shuvro, the central character from novel Daruchini Dwip (1991), embodies a unique blend of brilliance and vulnerability. A young man from a wealthy family with impaired vision, Shuvro is a fan-favourite character whose popularity grew after Tauquir Ahmed adapted the novel into a film in 2007, with Riaz Ahmed taking on the role. Though readers often prefer the literary Shuvro, the cinematic adaptation gave new life to this character, solidifying Shuvro’s legacy as one of Ahmed’s cherished protagonists.
Badiul Alam: The unyielding freedom fighter
Humayun Ahmed brought the intensity of Bangladesh’s Liberation War to life with his debut film Aguner Poroshmoni (1994), and Badiul Alam became a poignant figure in the portrayal of a freedom fighter. Asaduzzaman Noor’s performance struck a deep emotional chord, moving viewers to tears and capturing the courage and heartbreak of those turbulent times. Badiul Alam’s story remains a testament to Humayun Ahmed’s skill in crafting characters that embody strength, resilience, and patriotism.
Misir Ali: The iconic detective
Among Ahmed’s creations, Misir Ali stands out as the quintessential problem solver, a character who relies on logic above all else. A professor by trade, Misir Ali is often sought after to untangle the mysteries and dilemmas of others. First portrayed by Abul Hayat on television, Misir Ali made a memorable comeback on screen in Anam Biswas’ Debi (2018), where Chanchal Chowdhury breathed new life into the role. Misir Ali’s contemplative nature and deductive prowess have made him a beloved figure in Bangladeshi fiction, particularly among readers drawn to psychological intrigue.
Baker bhai and Muna: An unforgettable pair
No character in Bangladeshi television has sparked as much conversation as Baker bhai , portrayed by Asaduzzaman Noor in urban drama series Kothao Keu Nei (1990). This iconic character’s eventual execution was met with national outrage, with fans even staging protests in response. His complex relationship with Muna, played by Suborna Mustafa, was another highlight of the show. Muna’s unwavering loyalty to Baker bhai, even in his final moments, deepened the emotional impact on the audience.
Himu: The philosophical vagabond
Perhaps the most beloved of Ahmed’s characters, Himu has fascinated readers for years. Known for his philosophical wanderings and refusal to adhere to social conventions, Himu captivated fans who eagerly awaited each new sequel of the novel about his adventures. Although Himu rarely appeared on television, Fazlul Kabir Tuhin’s portrayal in Nokkhotrer Raat (1996) gave audiences a glimpse of the character’s enigmatic appeal, further fueling his popularity.
Anis: The quirky, naive intellectual
In the wildly popular drama Aaj Robibar (1999), Zahid Hasan’s Anis charmed audiences with his wit and eccentric mannerisms. Anis’s quirky dialogues have recently found new life on social media, with memes and clips reintroducing the character to a younger generation, making him a fan favourite all over again.
Nilu: A reflection of Humayun’s strengths
The character Nilu from Humayun Ahmed’s debut drama serial Eishob Dinratri (1985) resonated with viewers as a reflection of the writer’s ability to create relatable, multifaceted women whose stories touch upon the joys and struggles of everyday life.
The character was portrayed by veteran actor Dolly Zahur, which remains to be one of the most celebrated roles of the actress. The drama was aired on BTV and later adopted as a novel in 1990w with the same title.
Beyond these notable figures, Ahmed’s work also includes unforgettable characters like Yunus from Matir Pinjira and Dhotara Chacha, played by Challenger, in TV drama Urey Jay Bok Pokkhi . Each character, whether a fearless freedom fighter or a philosophical wanderer, adds to the profound impact Humayun Ahmed has had on Bangladeshi audience. His legacy, immortalised through these characters, continues to inspire, entertain, and connect with audiences to this day.