Renowned Bangladeshi fiction writer Rahitul Islam has been honoured with the prestigious "Who’s Who Bangladesh–2026" Award in recognition of his outstanding contribution to literature. He received special recognition in the “Arts and Literature” category.
The award ceremony took place at the Hotel Sheraton Dhaka on Saturday in a grand event, where 12 distinguished individuals from sectors including education, culture, literature, and journalism were honoured. Actress Farida Akhter Poppy (Babita) and many others received medals in art and culture at this year's event.
State Minister for Information and Broadcasting Yasir Khan Chowdhury attended the event as the chief speaker. He, along with acclaimed actress Gulshan Ara Akter Champa, handed over the award to Rahitul Islam.
Rahitul Islam was recognized for pioneering a new trend of technology-based fiction (tech-fiction) in Bangladesh and inspiring young readers through this genre. For over a decade and a half, he has been writing stories and novels in simple language, focusing on freelancing and various aspects of technology.
Some of his notable works include Sukhobor Bangladesh, Charer Master Computer Engineer, Freelancer Nadia, Outsourcing o Bhalobashar Golpo, Hacker Himel, Tothyo Projukti Khater Nayok Series, Call Centre-er Oporajita, Bodle Dewar Gaan, Bhalobashar Hat Bazar, Dui Bhuboner Manush, and his recent widely discussed novel Badoler Karabas. Many of his stories have also been adapted into popular dramas and telefilms.
Reacting to the award, Rahitul Islam said that literature which serves humanity is the truest form of writing.
He highlighted his recent novel Badoler Karabas, based on the real-life story of Badal Farazi, who was wrongfully arrested in India in 2008 due to a case of mistaken identity and remained imprisoned for years even after being brought back to Bangladesh under a prisoner exchange agreement.
It is worth noting that the “Who’s Who” initiative has been recognizing distinguished individuals worldwide since 1849. In Bangladesh, the award has been organized biennially since 2016.
