From its inception in 2008, Kali O Kolom Literary Award has been one of the most prestigious and encouraging award for young wordsmiths.
Formerly, the award was jointly conferred by HSBC and Kali O Kolom, a reputed literary magazine. This year, the magazine itself bestowed the 2014 award, known as Kali O Kolom Tarun Kobi O Lekhok Puruskar, to three young writers.
On May 30th, Sakira Parvin, Fatima Rumi and M Abdul Alim received the award from popular Indian Bengali novelist Samaresh Majumder, who was present as the chief guest at an award-giving ceremony at Bengal Shilpalaya at Dhanmondi.
Sakira Parvin won the award in the poetry category for her collection of poems titled Bristir Matlami, while Fatima Rumi won in the ‘short stories and novel’ category for her debut book Ami Onindita.
M Abdul Alim won the award for his research book titled Pabnay Bhasa Andolon in the ‘essay, research and play’ category.
Among others, the award-giving ceremony was graced by, noted writer Imdadul Haque Milon, Abul Hasnat, editor of Kali O Kolom and Abul Khair, publisher of Kali O Kolom. Emeritus Professor Anisuzzaman presided over the programme and Luva Nahid Chowdhury, director of Bengal Foundation, anchored it.
The winners received a crest, a cheque of Tk 100,000 and a certificate. All three of them expressed their gratitude while receiving the award.
‘I did not expect such a big award for my debut book. I am inspired and encouraged’, expressed Fatima Rumi. Similarly surprised and happy were Sakira Parvin and M Abdul Alim.
A documentary on the conferring of Kali O Kolom award since 2008 to 2013 was screened at the programme as well.
In the guests’ speech, Imdadul Haque Milon praised Kali O Kolom for awarding young pen smiths and applauding their commitment and dedication.
Also, Samaresh Majumder, praised the brilliant writing of the three winners. “I have read their writing. All of them are very talented and I hope they will make significant contributions to literature in the future.”
“The award will inspire young writers in the coming years as well,” assured emeritus Professor Anisuzzaman, also president of the editorial board of Kali O Kolom.