In Remembrance M. R. Akhtar Mukul

The Immortal Voice of Charampatra

The history of Bangladesh’s মহান Liberation War is illuminated by remarkable individuals who, without ever carrying a weapon, transformed words into powerful instruments of resistance and inspired an entire nation towards victory. Among the foremost of these was M. R. Akhtar Mukul. A distinguished journalist, writer, editor, intellectual and patriotic broadcaster, he emerged as one of the most extraordinary warriors of words during the nation’s struggle for independence.

His immortal creation, Charampatra, was far more than a radio programme. It became a symbol of courage for the freedom fighters, a source of hope for the people, and a formidable weapon of psychological warfare against the occupying Pakistani forces. Broadcast from the Swadhin Bangla Betar Kendra (Independent Bengal Radio Centre), his commentaries—rich with satire, wit, sharp criticism and unwavering patriotism—not only inspired the freedom fighters but also instilled fear and uncertainty among the enemy.

M. R. Akhtar Mukul, whose full name was Mustafa Rowshan Akhtar Mukul, was born on 9 August 1929 in the village of Chingaspur, near the historic Mahasthangarh in Bogura. His father was the renowned literary figure Saadat Ali Akhand, while his mother was Rabeya Khatun. His brother, Mostafa Nur-ul-Islam, was one of the country’s most respected educationists and cultural personalities.

From his student days, Mukul was actively involved in progressive politics. His political activities led to imprisonment on several occasions. Remarkably, he passed his undergraduate examinations while in prison during 1948–49 and later earned a Master’s degree in Bangla Language and Literature from the University of Dhaka in 1951.

Although he worked in various organisations early in his career, journalism became his defining profession. He served in prominent editorial and reporting roles at newspapers including The Daily Azad, The Daily Ittefaq and Purbodesh. He also earned widespread respect as the Dhaka Bureau Chief of the international news agency United Press International (UPI) in what was then East Pakistan.

His greatest contribution to the Liberation War came through Charampatra. His distinctive delivery, masterful use of regional dialects, biting satire and relentless mockery of the enemy strengthened the morale of the freedom fighters. During the darkest days of the war, his vivid and imaginative broadcasts gave people the confidence to believe that Bangladesh’s victory was inevitable.

One of his memorable broadcasts declared:

“The monsoon is approaching. The whole country will be flooded. The Pakistanis cannot swim. Our fearless fighters will simply puncture their speedboats—and then victory will be ours.”

Such broadcasts became a unique means of nurturing hope and strengthening the determination of a war-weary nation.

Following independence, he was appointed Director General of the Department of Information in 1972 and later served as Director General of Bangladesh Betar. In 1975, he was posted to the Bangladesh High Commission in London as Press Counsellor.

In 1978, the military government invited him to return to Bangladesh to assume a senior government position, but he firmly declined. Following the assassination of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, he refused to compromise with the prevailing political circumstances. Remaining steadfast in his principles, he chose a life in exile.

He eventually returned to Bangladesh in 1987, where he played a significant role in the second phase of editing the documentary records of the Bangladesh Liberation War. He also founded Sagar Publishers, which has since made a notable contribution to Bangla publishing.

After a long battle with cancer, this legendary warrior of words passed away on 26 June 2004. Yet his voice continues to resonate in the history of Bangladesh’s independence, in the spirit of the Liberation War, and in the hearts of every patriotic Bengali.

On 16 December 1971—the day of victory—during the final broadcast of Charampatra, he revealed his identity for the very first time, saying:

“Today is the 16th of December. This is the final day of Charampatra. Before I bid you farewell, let me tell you the name of your humble servant. My name is M. R. Akhtar Mukul.”

These words have become immortal in the pages of history. For nine long months, his voice had inspired an entire nation with courage, and on the day of victory, he introduced himself with characteristic humility.

Although he is no longer with us in person, his masterpiece, Charampatra, remains an invaluable historical document of the Liberation War and an enduring source of inspiration.

With profound respect and heartfelt gratitude, we remember the great warrior of words, journalist and patriot, M. R. Akhtar Mukul.

Your voice will echo through the history of our independence for generations to come.

May your soul rest in eternal peace.