The Bangla Academy Literary Award in the poetry category for poet Mohon Raihan has been withheld by the Bangla Academy without prior notice, despite his nomination for the award this year.
The Academy revealed the list of award recipients on February 23, which initially included Raihan’s name in the poetry category. However, he did not receive the award as planned due to allegations against him, leading to a sudden reassessment, as confirmed by officials and the poet himself through various media outlets. Raihan disclosed the situation on Facebook, expressing surprise at the decision, emphasizing he did not seek the award through any lobbying efforts and that the selection was made independently by the award committee.
State Minister for Cultural Affairs Ali Newaz Mahmud Khaiyam revealed that multiple complaints had been lodged against Raihan, resulting in the temporary withholding of the award. He mentioned that the authorities are actively investigating the complaints, and a final decision will be made following the review process.
Despite the controversy, the awards ceremony proceeded at the Bangla Academy in Dhaka, with Prime Minister Tarique Rahman presenting the 2025 Bangla Academy Literary Awards to other deserving recipients. Raihan, who currently holds the position of president of the Jatiya Kobita Parishad (National Poetry Council), linked the award’s withholding to a poem he wrote 41 years ago titled “Taher er Shopno” (Taher’s Dream), which revolves around Colonel Abu Taher.
Responding to concerns about the handling of the situation, Khaiyam clarified that the selection of awardees is solely the responsibility of the Bangla Academy and noted that a revised decision could be announced in the coming days, emphasizing that the current situation is temporary.
The Bangla Academy Literary Award holds significant prestige in Bangladesh as a state recognition for literary contributions, traditionally awarded during the Ekushey observances in February each year, commemorating the Language Movement of 1952. The recent events have sparked debates within literary and cultural circles regarding the autonomy of award committees and the exploration of historical and political themes in literature.