Shaukat Osman, a prominent writer, sought to liberate Bengali Muslim society from superstition and hypocrisy, advocating for enlightenment through knowledge. He strongly opposed bigotry and embraced various literary forms such as novels, stories, plays, poems, essays, children's literature, and translations. Recognized as a distinguished figure in the literary realm, he generously supported and mentored young writers, encouraging them to dedicate at least half an hour daily to writing. His guidance has fostered the development of numerous renowned authors. Osman's scientific mindset was evident as he lamented the stark contrast between America's lunar landing achievements and the plight of rickshaw pullers in his own country, underscoring the need for societal awakening.

Shawkat Osman, the renowned literary figure known as the "spokesman of the nation," played a significant role in revolutionizing Bangladeshi fiction and literature. He fearlessly addressed societal issues, advocated for free speech, and presented a realistic depiction of society. Osman's works reflected his commitment to truth and beauty, establishing him not only as a literary figure but also as a notable social reformer. Despite facing early-life poverty, he emerged as a legendary writer in Bangladesh.

Shawkat Osman, originally named Sheikh Azizur Rahman, was born on January 2, 1917, in Sabal Singhapur village, West Bengal. He came from a low-class family, with his father, Sheikh Mohammad Yahya, working as a farmer. As the eldest among seven siblings, Osman experienced poverty throughout his childhood.

Osman's educational journey began at the Sabal Singhapur village school at the age of five. He later attended the Rupchand Gupta Academy in Nandanpur. However, financial instability posed challenges to his education. In 1926, Osman enrolled in the Junior Madrasa of Sabal Singhapur village, where an encounter with his teacher sparked his lifelong pursuit of freethinking.

At the age of 16, Osman passed the first division entrance examination from Singhapur Junior Madrasa and gained admission to Calcutta Aliya Madrasa in 1933. Despite ongoing financial struggles, Osman's mother contributed her jewelry to support his studies. In 1934, he left Aliya Madrasa and joined St. Xavier's College in Kolkata. Subsequently, in 1935, he passed the F.A. examination and enrolled in the Department of Economics at Calcutta University. After completing his undergraduate degree, Osman pursued further studies in the Bengali Department of Calcutta University, earning an M.A. in Bengal.

In 1941, Shawkat Osman commenced his teaching career as a lecturer at the Government Commercial College, Calcutta. He also taught at a school in Kolkata, where renowned actor Uttam Kumar was among his students. During his time at the Government Commercial College, Osman published his first book, a children's literature work titled "Oten Sahib's Bungalow," in 1944.

Shawkat Osman, a versatile writer, aimed to liberate Bengali Muslim society from superstition and hypocrisy, advocating for enlightenment through knowledge. He vehemently opposed bigotry. Osman's expertise spanned various literary forms, including novels, stories, plays, poems, essays, children's literature, and translations. His stature as a literary figure led him to mentor and support young writers, urging them to dedicate at least half an hour daily to writing. Many renowned writers owe their success to his guidance. Osman's scientific inclination was evident in his lament over the stark contrast between the American moon landing and the continued exploitation of rickshaw pullers in his country. This disparity served as a call to action that went unanswered.

Shaukat Osman, a rationalist and esteemed writer emphasized the importance of Bengal and Bengali culture. May 14, 2023 marks the 25th death anniversary of this influential figure. On this day, We humbly honor the legacy of this brilliant Bengali literary mastermind.

Source : A Memoir Celebrating Shaukat Osman's Birth Centenary

Ahmed Mawla's Review of Shaukat Osman's Novel: Theme and Artistic Style in Daily Star Bangla and Google.

Writer : Dr.Md Abu Bakar Siddique widely known as Dr.Dipu Siddiqui Associate Professor and Chairman Department of Education Royal University of Dhaka, General Secretary of Shawkat Osman Smriti Parishad