A shining star of Bengali literature and academia, emeritus professor of the English Department of Dhaka University, fiction writer and essayist Syed Manjurul Islam is no more. Inna lillahi wa inna ilaihi rajiun. He breathed his last at 5 pm on Friday (October 10) while undergoing treatment at Labaid Hospital in the capital. He was 70 years old at the time of his death.

According to family and colleagues, Professor Syed Manjurul Islam suddenly fell ill on Friday afternoon while on his way to the University of Liberal Arts Bangladesh in Dhanmondi. The driver who was with him quickly took him to a nearby hospital. Later, he was admitted to Labaid Hospital. Doctors said that he had a 'massive heart attack' and stenting (ring) was quickly done in his heart.

Professor Syed Manjurul Islam was put on life support as his physical condition did not improve. After being on life support for about 48 hours, there was a slight improvement, but his physical condition deteriorated again. Finally, doctors declared him dead at 5 pm on Friday.

His body will be kept in the cold storage of BIRDEM Hospital this Friday night. Tomorrow, Saturday, at 11 am, a civic tribute will be organized at the Central Shaheed Minar under the banner of the National Poetry Council. After that, after Zohr, the funeral will be held at the Central Jame Mosque of Dhaka University and he will be buried at the Mirpur Shaheed Intellectual Graveyard.

Syed Manjurul Islam was not only an educationist, he was one of the most powerful writers and critics of contemporary Bengali literature. His literary works reflect a deep analysis of society, culture and human values. He was a source of inspiration for students and readers. His departure has created a deep void in the arena of Bengali literature.