Poet Mohon Raihan, nominated for the Bangla Academy Literary Award 2025 in the poetry category, did not receive the award, he confirmed in a Facebook post Thursday afternoon.
Raihan, who serves as president of the National Poetry Council, is reportedly facing several allegations, leading the Bangla Academy to “temporarily suspend” the award. A final decision will be made after a review of the claims, according to Academy sources.
The Bangla Academy had announced the 2025 literary awards last Monday, noting Raihan’s nomination in poetry. Prime Minister Tarique Rahman handed over the awards to the winners Thursday afternoon.
In his Facebook post, Raihan wrote: “As you know, I was selected for the Bangla Academy Literary Award 2025 (poetry). I had no expectation of receiving it, nor did I lobby anyone. The award committee chose me spontaneously.”
He added that the award was later cancelled over a poem written 41 years ago. “Yesterday, recipients were called by SSF for a rehearsal to receive the award. When I came to collect mine today, I learned that a certain group had cancelled my award, via Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, for my poem ‘Taher’s Dream’ about Colonel Taher written 41-years ago,” Raihan said.
Cultural Affairs Minister Nitai Roy Chowdhury told the media that: “There are several allegations against Mohon Raihan. Once these matters are reviewed, the award will be re-announced. The previous government had nominated him. We are now examining the issue before making a decision.”
On the nature of the allegations, the minister said details could not be disclosed while the review is ongoing.
