The New Nation - Internet Edition

BSS, Dhaka

Professor Zia Haider, an eminent academic, poet and dramatist died at a city hospital here on Tuesday Morning at the age of 72.

He was suffering from cancer and undergoing treatment at the hospital for the last few days.

Prof Zia Haider served as teacher of Chittagong University (CU) for long time and played a very active role in establishing the Department of Drama in CU. He was also involved with many democratic and cultural movements.

A honourary fellow of Bangla Academy, Prof Zia Haider authored many books and received Bangla Academy Literary Award in 1977.

The body of Zia Haider was taken to Bangla Academy and Aparajeyo Bangla to allow the colleagues and admirers to have their last glimpse. A namaz-e-janaza of Zia Haider was held at Dhaka University campus.

His younger brother Professor Rashid Haider told BSS the body of the deceased started for Doharpara of Pabna district where he will be buried at his family graveyard.

Bangla Academy expressed deep shock at the death of Prof Zia Haider. Director General (acting) of the academy Moinul Hasan in a condolence message said the death of Zia Haider is a great loss for literature and cultural arena.