Kazi Shahid Ahmed, a distinguished entrepreneur, sports organizer, writer, and publisher, breathed his last on Monday at 7:15pm. He was 82.
Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has expressed deep condolence at his death.
His first namaz-e-janaza will be held at Dhanmondi Road 7 Mosque after Zuhr prayer and second one at Gulshan Azad mosque after Asr prayer on Tuesday. Then, the renowned entrepreneur will be laid to eternal rest at Banani Graveyard, according to his family sources.
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.
Kazi Shahed is survived by his wife Ameenah Ahmed, a renowned Rabindra Sangeet artiste, and three sons. His eldest son Kazi Nabil Ahmed is a Member of the Parliament of Awami League from Jessore-3 (Sadar) constituency, elder son Kazi Anis Ahmed is the publisher of online news portal Bangla Tribune and English daily Dhaka Tribune and youngest son Inam Ahmed is the director of Gemcon Group.
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 the University of Liberal Arts Bangladesh (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 in 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. Notably, Ajker Kagoj ushered in a new era of modernity in Bangladeshi newspapers, championing free expression and embodying the spirit of the Liberation War. Kagoj, the weekend magazine of the newspaper, was noted for the richness of its columns contributed by eminent writers of the country.
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.
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.
