FROM PAGE 3

Nazrul Institute, Bangla Academy, and Shilpakala Academy, among others.

Speaking on behalf of the family, his sister, Syeda Sattar Baby, said, “We spent the last eight day-nights at the hospital. The love I saw from his students and admirers made me feel that my brother was not only a great teacher but also a beloved soul to many. For that, I express my gratitude on behalf of our family.”

Professor Emeritus Serajul Islam Choudhury, remembering his former student and colleague, said, “Manzoor was a brilliant student who began teaching early. His connection with literature was unique. He received several awards, including the Ekushey Padak, all of which he truly deserved. He was a rare human being, completely free of arrogance.”

Environment Adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan said, “Dhaka University has lost one of its finest teachers today.”

Recalling her memories, she added, “Manzoor bhai was not only a teacher and writer but also an extraordinary human being. Our relationship was more personal than professional. He was respected for his wisdom, humility, and integrity. Many hoped for a miracle, but his time to leave had come.”

Law Adviser Asif Nazrul, who lived next door to him on Fuller Road, said, “He had a smile that could only come from a pure heart. It was his signature. Despite our political differences, I always admired his honesty and integrity. He was immensely knowledgeable and deeply loved. His death is an irreparable loss.”

Mofidul Hoque, trustee of the Liberation War Museum, said, “He was sincerely involved in many initiatives. His vastness of thought and his ability to awaken others will remain in society.”

Artist Monirul Islam said, “He wasn’t just an academic or a writer -- he had a deep understanding of contemporary art and aesthetics. That’s why I trusted him greatly.”

Photographer Shahidul Alam said, “In 2018, when the government exerted pressure on me, Pathshala, and Drik, he took the burden upon himself to shield us. Later, when the authorities tried to manipulate our governing body, he used his influence to free us from that difficult situation.”

From the Shaheed Minar, his body was taken to Dhaka University Mosque, where his namaz-e-janaza was held after Zuhr prayers. Later in the afternoon, he was laid to rest at the Martyred Intellectuals’ Graveyard in Mirpur.

Manzoorul, 74, breathed his last while undergoing treatment at LabAid Hospital in Dhaka on Friday.