Helal Hafiz, a name that resonates deeply with the literary community of Bangladesh, is celebrated for his profound impact on poetry, especially in the tumultuous decades of the 1960s and 1970s. Born in Baratoli village in Netrokona, Helal’s life journey, marked by his evocative verses and his sense of pride, still echoes in the hearts of his readers and fellow poets.
In this blog post, we delve into the legacy of Helal Hafiz, exploring the unforgettable memories shared by those who knew him, his poetic journey, and the poignant events that defined his life.
Early Life and the Birth of a Poet
Helal Hafiz was born on October 7, 1948, in the rural town of Baratoli, Netrokona. He spent his childhood, adolescence, and early youth in the region that would later serve as the backdrop for his poetic expressions. In 1967, he completed his higher secondary education from Netrokona College before enrolling in the Bangla Department at Dhaka University.
The 1960s, a period of social unrest and political upheaval, greatly influenced Helal’s poetic perspective. He began writing during this turbulent era, a time when the youth of Bangladesh were coming to terms with their identity and the ongoing struggle for independence. His early works reflected the emotions of a generation caught between love, betrayal, and the desire for freedom.
A Friendship Forged in the Sixties: Nirmalendu Gun’s Reflections
One of the most significant figures in Helal Hafiz’s life was Nirmalendu Gun, another renowned poet from Netrokona. Despite being three years older than Helal, Gun and Hafiz shared a deep bond, one that was rooted in both their personal and literary journeys. In an emotional interview, Nirmalendu Gun reflected on the unforgettable memories he shared with Helal Hafiz, especially during their years at Dhaka University.
“I can’t count how many days and nights Abul Hasan and I spent hanging out in Helal’s room at Iqbal Hall. It was a time of intense literary discussions and passionate exchanges,” Gun reminisced. These sessions, filled with poetry, philosophy, and youthful dreams, would shape the course of both poets’ careers.
The Triumph of Helal Hafiz’s First Poetry Book: Je Jal Agun Jal
Helal Hafiz’s breakthrough moment came in 1986 with the publication of his first poetry book, Je Jal Agun Jal (The Fire of Water). This book catapulted him to fame, establishing him as one of Bangladesh’s most influential poets. His words, infused with the spirit of the times, captured the collective emotions of a society grappling with both love and political struggle.
The poem “Now is the best time for youth to go to the procession” became an anthem for the youth of the 1970s, later transcending into a powerful slogan during the country’s liberation war and the anti-dictatorship movements. The powerful verses resonated deeply with young people, who saw in them a call to action and solidarity. Nirmalendu Gun, who was instrumental in introducing Helal to his publisher, was proud of his friend’s success.
“Helal used to go to the Press Club with me for the first time, and I arranged for his book to be published. He had great pride, which often led him to live alone,” Gun recalled. This pride, though sometimes misinterpreted, was part of Helal’s essence — a quiet confidence that both isolated him and, at the same time, defined his individuality.
Helal Hafiz: The Poet’s Complex Life and Personality
Helal Hafiz’s personal life, marked by a mixture of solitude and occasional arrogance, often baffled those who knew him. He was not one to embrace the limelight, preferring instead to let his poetry speak for him. Many who were close to him, including his brother Dulal Abdul Hafiz, described him as a man of deep reflection, whose presence was often solitary yet filled with inner strength.
“He had a great pride, and because of that pride, he used to live alone,” said Nirmalendu Gun, echoing a sentiment shared by many who knew the poet. Helal’s tendency to withdraw into himself was partly due to his internal struggles, but also because of his desire for autonomy and independence.
Despite his reclusive nature, Helal’s life was marked by a series of moves between different places in Dhaka. For over a decade, he lived in hotels, particularly near the National Press Club. This lifestyle, while unconventional, became a part of his identity. Even when he fell ill in his later years, Helal insisted on remaining in the hotel rather than seeking traditional medical care or returning home.
Helal’s brother Dulal Abdul Hafiz revealed, “He spent the night in hotels for more than ten years. When he fell ill, we brought him home, but he preferred the solitude of the hotel.”
The Final Days of Helal Hafiz
Helal Hafiz’s later years were marked by physical decline. Diabetes, kidney disease, and glaucoma made his life increasingly difficult. Despite his deteriorating health, he continued to live on his own terms, residing at the Super Home Hostel in Shahbagh during the post-COVID period.
It was here that Helal Hafiz spent his final days. Rupam Roddur, a fellow resident of the hostel, took care of the poet during his last three years. He described Helal as someone who had been suffering from loneliness and physical illness, often unable to walk properly.
On the fateful day of his passing, Helal fell in the bathroom of the hostel, suffering a hemorrhage. Though he was rushed to the nearby hospital, the doctors declared him dead. Despite his reclusive lifestyle, Helal was deeply loved by those around him, and his death marked the end of an era for Bengali poetry.
The Mystique of Helal Hafiz’s Poetry
Helal Hafiz was not a prolific writer by any means. His works were few, but each one carried immense weight. His poetry became synonymous with the struggles of his generation, reflecting both personal anguish and societal turmoil. His first book, Je Jal Agun Jal, went through more than 33 editions, a testament to its enduring popularity.
His second book, Kavita Ekattor, published in 2012, was released after a gap of 25 years. The third, Bednake Bekho Kendo Na, came out in 2019, reaffirming his place in the pantheon of Bengali poets. Despite his long periods of silence, his poems continued to captivate readers, often quoted during protests, love letters, and moments of introspection.
One of his most iconic poems, Nishidh Editorial, written during the 1969 mass uprising, became a rallying cry for the youth. The lines “Now is the time for youth to march / Now is the time for youth to go to war” were not only slogans during the independence movement but also inspired countless activists during the anti-dictatorship struggles of the 1990s.
Helal Hafiz’s Enduring Influence
Although Helal Hafiz’s life was one of solitude and mystery, his impact on Bengali literature cannot be overstated. His poems became anthems of resistance and love, resonating across generations. Whether it was the fervor of the independence movement or the quiet longing expressed in his love poems, Helal’s words transcended time and place.
His work continues to inspire new generations of poets, activists, and readers alike. His legacy lives on through his verses, which continue to be read, recited, and admired.
Remembering Helal Hafiz
Helal Hafiz’s life was as complex as his poetry. A man of pride and solitude, yet also a poet who captured the hearts of many with his timeless words. His journey from the rooms of Dhaka University to the hotels of the city tells a story of a man who remained steadfast to his individuality, never conforming to expectations, but always staying true to his craft.
In his poetry, Helal Hafiz continues to live on — a symbol of the power of words, the depth of emotions, and the beauty of a solitary life dedicated to art.
If you’re interested in exploring more about Bengali poetry, Helal Hafiz’s works remain a treasure trove of literary brilliance, offering readers both introspection and inspiration for years to come.
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