Marking the legacy of a legendary journalist
Today marks the 57th death anniversary of renowned journalist Tofazzal Hossain Manik Miah, founding editor of the daily Ittefaq and a prominent figure in the development of modern journalism in what was then East Pakistan.
Widely regarded as one of the leading journalists of his time, Manik Miah played a significant role in shaping public opinion during a crucial period in the political history of the region.
Through his influential columns, including Rajnaitik Mancha, Rajnaitik Dhonkabaji and Ranga Mancha, he addressed political developments, governance issues and the growing demand for democratic representation.
Writing under the pen name ‘Mosafir’, Manik Miah communicated complex political issues in accessible language, helping to bridge the gap between political leaders and ordinary citizens.
His editorials and commentaries contributed to public discourse on democracy, constitutional rights and the aspirations of the Bengali people.
As editor of Dainik Ittefaq, he was closely associated with many of the major political movements of the time and maintained professional relationships with prominent leaders, including Maulana Abdul Hamid Khan Bhashani, A K Fazlul Huq, Huseyn Shaheed Suhrawardy and Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman.
His journalistic work frequently brought him into conflict with the authorities, resulting in periods of imprisonment.
Manik Miah died in Rawalpindi on 1 June 1969 at the age of 56. His death was widely mourned, and his contribution to journalism and public life continues to be recognised decades later.
In an article titled My Manik Bhai, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman reflected on their long association and shared commitment to the rights of the people.
He described Manik Miah as a trusted companion in the struggle for political and democratic rights and praised his contribution through journalism.
Born in 1911 in Bhandaria of Pirojpur district, Tofazzal Hossain Manik Miah was the son of Muslim Uddin Mia.
He began his education at East Bhandaria Model Primary School and later passed the matriculation examination with distinction from Pirojpur District Government High School. In 1935, he graduated with a BA degree from Barisal BM College.
After completing his studies, he joined the Pirojpur District Civil Court. In 1937, he married Majeda Begum, daughter of Khandaker Abul Hasan of Goaldi village in present-day Faridpur district.
Over the years, Dainik Ittefaq emerged as one of the most influential newspapers in the country, playing an important role in promoting democratic values, public awareness and civic rights.
Manik Miah’s contribution to Bengali journalism remains a subject of study and appreciation among journalists, academics and political observers.
To mark his death anniversary, The New Nation and The Daily Ittefaq have organised Qur’an recitation programmes at Azimpur Graveyard from 8:00am today, followed by a munajat at 10:00am. Members of his family have also arranged a Qur’an recitation and prayer gathering in his memory.
