With no plans to stop writing any time soon, author Kazi Shahid Ahmed unveiled his fourth novel at the Abdul Karim Sahitya Bisharad auditorium of Bangla Academy in Dhaka on Thursday.
The novel, titled “Apekkha (Waiting),” examines the complexities of human relationships through the conflicts and confrontations stemming from a love triangle.
Addressing the unveiling ceremony, Kazi Shahid vowed to continue writing for another two decades even though he was in his late 70s.
“As an author, I have the liberty to write by imagining that I am in the future. I use that liberty in my novels,” he added.
The author also urged more people to get into the habit of writing, as it was a “source of immense joy.”
Discussing the writing of his first novel “Bhairab,” which was published five years ago and subsequently translated into English, Kazi Shahid said he writes his manuscripts by hand, instead of using a computer.
“Writing gives you the freedom to create a lot of characters, but you have to be careful. If the number of characters crosses a certain limit, the manuscript gets way too long and becomes less interesting,” he said.
Kazi Shahid Ahmed holds his book up, while sharing anecdotes from his life | Mahmud Hossain Opu
Addressing the unveiling ceremony as the chief guest, National Professor Dr Rafiqul Islam said: “Kazi Shahid’s unceasing passion for writing is very encouraging.”
The educationist added that there were many poets in the country, but not enough novelists.
“Shahid’s work is different from that of other novelists. He writes out of his own experience and avoids copying the style of other authors,” he said, praising Kazi Shahid’s setting of the historical background and use of different perspectives.
Special guest folklorist Shamsuzzaman Khan said he was amazed by Kazi Shahid’s writing in the novel, which was reminiscent of a seasoned author.
“His novels and books provide evidence of his skills [in writing],” Shamsuzzaman added.
Poet and Bangla Academy Director General Habibullah Shirajee expressed hope that the next generation of authors would follow Kazi Shahid’s example, and emulate his enthusiasm for writing.
Publisher of the novel Parvez Hossain said: “When an author sits down to write an autobiographical work, they will try to recall every minor detail of their life. Kazi Shahid Ahmed’s manuscript reflected that intent.”
Gemcon Group Board of Directors member Kazi Inam Ahmed delivered the welcome speech at the unveiling ceremony, which was moderated by poet Shamim Reza.
Kazi Shahid’s second novel was titled “Pasha,” and his third is called “Daate Kata Pencil.” In addition to being an author, he is the chairman of Gemcon Group.
