Motiur Rahman Mollik (1 March 1950 – 12 August 2010) was a prominent Bangladeshi poet, lyricist, composer, writer, cultural organizer, researcher, editor, and singer. He is widely recognized for his contributions to Islamic-themed poetry and songs, earning titles such as “The Poet of the Green Land,” “The Poet of Humanity,” and “The Poet of Emotions” in Bangladesh.
Early Life and Education
Mollik was born in Baroipara village of Bagherhat district. His father, Munshi Kayem Uddin Mollik, was a local folk songwriter known for “Jarigan” songs. Growing up in a musical family, Mollik developed a deep passion for poetry and music from childhood. He completed his primary education at Baroipara Siddikia Senior Madrasa, higher secondary education from Bagherhat P.C. College, and postgraduate studies in Bengali Language and Literature from Jagannath College (now Jagannath University). During his student years, he was associated with the Bangladesh Islamic Chhatra Shibir, serving as president of the Jagannath College branch.
Career
Mollik started his career as a literary editor for the weekly “Sonar Bangla” newspaper and subsequently worked as editor of the monthly “Kolom” magazine. He was the managing director of the Bangladesh Cultural Center until his death. In 1978, he established the “Saimum Shilpigoshthi,” a cultural group aimed at nurturing Islamic cultural expression among Bengali youth. His influence extended to building multiple cultural organizations in cities, towns, villages, schools, colleges, and universities throughout Bangladesh and among Bengali-speaking Muslim communities abroad, including West Bengal and Assam.
Literary Works and Songs
Mollik authored numerous poetry collections and song albums, producing wide-ranging works in Islamic devotional music and Bengali poetry. Some of his famous songs include:
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“Tomar Srishti Jodi Hoy Eto Shundor”
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“Tik Tik Tik Tik Je Ghori Ta”
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“Rasul Amar Bhalobasha”
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“Prithibi Amar Asol Thikana Noi”
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“Elo Ke Kabar Dhare”
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“Asho Gai Allah Namer Gaan”
He translated many significant Islamic literary works, including the heroic Afghan novel “Pahari Ek Loraku” and renowned poems of Hazrat Ali and Allama Iqbal. His books include poetry collections such as Nishonno Pakhir Nide, Sur-Shihoron, Joto Gaan Geyechi, Jhankar, Abartito Trinalata, Tomar Bhashar Tikkhon Chhora, Onoboroto Brikkher Gaan, and children’s rhyme book Rongin Megher Palki.
Recognition and Awards
Mollik received numerous awards for his literary and cultural contributions including:
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Shwarna Padak from the National Literary Council
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Paris Literary Award from Bangladesh Literature and Culture Council, France
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Baytus-Sharaf Literary Award from Baytus-Sharaf Anjuman-e-Ittehad Bangladesh
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Islamic Cultural Award from Islamic Social Welfare Council, Chittagong
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Multiple literary awards from various organizations in Bangladesh and abroad
Death
Motiur Rahman Mollik passed away on 12 August 2010 at Square Hospital in Dhaka, after suffering from long-term kidney illness. He left behind a rich legacy as a multifaceted cultural icon and literary figure whose works continue to inspire.