A doa mahfil was held seeking salvation for the soul of Kazi Shahid Ahmed, the pioneer of modern journalism in Bangladesh, and founder of Gemcon Group.
The doa mahfil was organized at the corporate office of Gemcon Group at Dhanmondi-27 at 3pm on Thursday.
His wife Ameenah Ahmed, a renowned Rabindra Sangeet artiste, and three sons -- Kazi Nabil Ahmed, a member of the parliament of Awami League from Jessore-3 (Sadar) constituency, elder son Kazi Anis Ahmed, publisher of online news portal Bangla Tribune and English daily Dhaka Tribune and youngest son Inam Ahmed, director of Gemcon Group were present at the program.
Apart from them, Zafar Sobhan, editor of Dhaka Tribune, and Professor Imran Ahmed, vice chancellor of the University of Liberal Arts Bangladesh (ULAB) attended the doa mahfil.
All higher officials and employees of Gemcon Group and its affiliates were also present.
Kazi Shahid Ahmed, a distinguished entrepreneur, sports organizer, writer, and publisher of “Dainik Ajker Kagoj” breathed his last at 7:15pm on August 28.
He was laid to rest at Banani graveyard on August 29.
Born in 1940 in Jessore, his legacy is etched in his multifaceted contributions to various fields.
As the founder and chairman of the Gemcon Group, Kazi Shahid Ahmed left an indelible mark on the business landscape.
His innovative spirit was not limited to entrepreneurship, for he also pioneered the establishment of Bangladesh's first-ever organic tea estate. Committed to education and philanthropy, he founded ULAB and the Kazi Shahid Foundation.
Throughout his life, Kazi Shahid Ahmed was synonymous with innovation. He continually surprised the nation with new initiatives, spanning newspapers, businesses, and educational institutions.
A graduate of engineering and a former officer in the Bangladesh Army, he played a crucial role in founding the Bangladesh Military Academy.
His entrepreneurial journey began in 1979 with the establishment of the Gemcon Group. He was also the driving spirit behind such esteemed dailies as “Khoborer Kagoj” and “Ajker Kagoj”.
Kazi Shahid Ahmed's literary contributions were equally significant. His inaugural book was published in 1995, followed by "Amar Lekha" and "Ghore Agun Legechhe" in the same year.
Another of his books, “Bhoirob”, was published in 2013. Later in 2014, his autobiography “Jiboner Shilalipi” was published.
In 2017, another novel, “Daate Kata Pencil”, was published. Kazi Shahid Ahmed said he had been carrying the story in his heart for 72 years.
Kazi Shahid Ahmed's legacy is a testament to his far-reaching vision, determination, and innovation. His impact reverberates through the realms of business, education, journalism, and more.
He leaves behind a legacy that will continue to inspire generations to come.