From budding politician to Father of the Nation

The third edition of Mujib, a graphic novel series based on Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman’s  The Unfinished Memoirs, was launched at this year’s Amar Ekushey Book Fair. The previous installments of the series revolved around the great leader’s early years, while the third one particularly deals with his formative years in politics. Published by the Centre for Research and Information (CRI), there will be a total of 12 issues in the graphic novel series. This week, we speak to the man behind the art, Syed Rashad Imam Tanmoy. Photo: Rajib Dhar

How does it feel to work on a subject like this?

It’s exciting because the graphic novel illustrates the life of the father of our­ nation and provides everyone with a look at his young days and his early political career. I believe there will be more depictions but what gives me most satisfaction is that, my artistic representation of Bangabandhu’s early days will remain as the first one.

Tell us about the third edition.

It revolves around the struggles that Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman had to endure to organise the first political conference in his career. Those who have followed the series will understand how the story-line is gradually becoming serious and increasingly political. As an artist, I can see that this graphic novel is increasingly becoming suitable for not only teenagers but mature audiences who take a keen interest in politics and the history behind political events.

Who are the people behind the initiative?

I would like to thank the publishers, namely Radwan Mujib Siddiq, Nasrul Hamid MP and the editor, Shibu Kumar Sheel – without these people, this wouldn’t have been possible. It was their support that prompted me to take up the challenge of representing the life of Bangabandhu through such simple, yet powerful storytelling.

What can the readers expect from the next issue?

As you can already see in the last pages of the third issue, young Bangabandhu is seen attending the “All India Muslim League Conference” in Delhi. Therefore, the next few editions will deal with how the father of the nation gradually delved into national politics. I feel that youngsters will enjoy following the journey of a young man, developing into a great leader. Photo: Courtesy