The 2026 Ekushey Padak, a prestigious civilian honor in Bangladesh, was conferred during a formal event organized by the Ministry of Cultural Affairs and the Government of Bangladesh. This ceremony acknowledged exceptional individuals for their remarkable contributions to Bangla language, literature, culture, and the arts.
Prime Minister Tarique Rahman graced the occasion as the chief guest, personally presenting the awards to the deserving recipients. The event, chaired by Minister of Cultural Affairs Nitai Roy Chowdhury, was attended by ministers, parliament members, senior officials, and other distinguished guests.
The ceremony commenced with a welcoming address by Secretary of Cultural Affairs Mofidur Rahman, followed by the proceedings of the Ekushey Padak Award 2026 overseen by Senior Secretary of the Ministry of Home Affairs Nasimul Ghani.
Among this year’s Ekushey Padak awardees are Farida Akhtar Babita (Film), Professor Md Abdus Sattar (Fine Arts), Marina Tabassum (Architecture), Ayub Bachchu (Music, posthumous), Arthy Ahmed (Dance), Islam Uddin Palakar (Palagan), Shafik Rehman (Journalism), Professor Dr Mahbubul Alam Majumdar (Education), Tejosh Haldar Josh (Sculpture), and Warfaze (Music Band).
State Minister for Cultural Affairs Ali Newaz Mahmud Khaiyam conveyed his congratulations, lauding the recipients for enriching Bangladesh’s cultural tapestry. Cultural Affairs Minister Nitai Roy Chowdhury emphasized that the Ekushey Padak symbolizes gratitude towards those who contribute to the nation’s cultural heritage.
In his address, Prime Minister Tarique Rahman congratulated the awardees, highlighting the importance of scholars and creative minds in shaping society. He underscored the significance of education, culture, and the arts in fostering societal development and prosperity.
The Prime Minister reflected on the origins of the Ekushey Padak, emphasizing its connection to the Language Movement and its role in honoring those who have made significant contributions to education, literature, research, and the arts. He reiterated the government’s commitment to promoting these fields and fostering a civilized society.
Veteran actress Farida Akhtar Babita was the first to be recognized at the ceremony, commended for her lifelong dedication to the entertainment industry. Posthumously honored musician Ayub Bachchu was represented by his wife, Ferdous Akhtar Chondona, acknowledging his pioneering role in Bangla rock music.
The award ceremony also honored Warfaze, a renowned rock band known for shaping Bangladesh’s rock music scene with their iconic tracks and albums. Additionally, folk singer Islam Uddin Palakar, dancer Arthy Ahmed, and sculptor Tejosh Haldar Josh were recognized for their outstanding contributions to their respective fields.
The Ekushey Padak ceremony celebrated the cultural richness of Bangladesh and the valuable contributions of its talented individuals, with a commitment to nurturing and promoting the nation’s language and heritage on a global scale.
