Elocutionist and General Secretary of Sammilito Sangskritike Jote, Hasan Arif, passed away today at 1:50 pm, while under treatment in Bangladesh Specialized Hospital.
The news was confirmed by Ghulam Kuddus, President of Sommilito Sanskritik Jote.
The artiste had been on life support, after suffering from a heart attack last December, 2022. He was also diagnosed with Covid-19 earlier that year.
In his career of more than three decades, Hasan Arif was associated with Shawrita Recitation Team, since 1985. He was the Founder and Organising Secretary of Bangladesh Abritti Shomonnay Parishad, and served as General Secretary of the organisation for three consecutive terms.
The artiste was also the President of the recitation organisation “Shrutighar”.
Ghulam Kuddus said that the artiste’s body will be kept at Bangabandhu Specialized Hospital tonight. “He will be taken to his residence at Dhanmondi in the morning tomorrow. We will take him to the Shaheed Minar, from 11 am till 1 pm for everyone to pay their last respects,” said Ghulam.
His Namaz-e-Janaza will take place after Zuhr prayers.
Hasan Arif, prior to his passing had donated his body to science. It will be handed over to Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical after all rituals are completed, for medical anatomy.
Elocutionist and anchor Sharmin Lucky shared her memory with Hasan Arif. “I have been away from recitation for a long time, I remember the time during 1994, when I started reciting, Arif bhai was really welcoming and he always inspired young artistes,” shares Lucky.
“Few years ago, we appeared on a television programme as guests, which was the last time we met in person. He never let me feel that I am away from this field. He was a great speaker, his voice and charm would leave everyone spellbound.”
– With The Daily Star input
