The legacy of Jamaluddin Hossain

Jamaluddin Hossain, the iconic actor who brought the role of the police officer in 'Dewan Gazi's Kissa' to life, is no more. 

The character, and his memorable performance, still resonate with audiences of Dhaka's theatre scene. His portrayal of the officer captivated viewers, and he became widely popular for his work. 

Additionally, Jamaluddin's performance in a Macbeth adaptation under the direction of a British director in 1983 also earned him critical acclaim.

Although these two plays are often highlighted, his acting career spanned numerous beloved stage productions. 

Jamaluddin was a familiar face both on stage and on television, and his contributions to the arts were recognised with the prestigious Ekushey Padak. Before moving permanently to the United States in 2006, he was a regular figure in the theatre world.

Sadly, on 11 October, he passed away at a hospital in Canada due to pneumonia. His son, Tashfin Hossain, shared the news with the media. The veteran actor was laid to rest in Calgary, Canada.  

His family revealed that he had been ill for three weeks and had been admitted to the hospital. He had travelled from his daughter's home in the US to visit his son Tashfin in Canada, where he fell sick and eventually passed away.

Jamaluddin was born on 8 October 1943 in West Bengal's Chobbish Pargana. In 1947, during the partition, his family migrated to Chattogram, Bangladesh. 

After completing his schooling in Chattogram, he enrolled in BUET (Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology). After graduating in 1965, he started his career as a mechanical engineer at Chittagong Steel Mills. However, his passion for acting soon took over.

"He was a seasoned warrior in Bangladesh's cultural field, standing up against injustice and playing an active role in the 90s anti-authoritarian movement."

Tariq Anam Khan

Jamaluddin began his journey in theatre in the mid-1970s with theatre group Nagarik Natya Sampradaya. He later ventured into television and also founded another theatre group- Nagarik Nattyangan.

Over the years, he directed several acclaimed plays, including 'Khachar Bhitor Ochin Pakhi', 'Raja Rani', 'Chand Boniker Pala', and 'Bibi Shaheb'. 

For the past 15 years, he was largely inactive in the theatre world, travelling frequently between North America and Bangladesh. His dear friend and fellow actor, the ever renowned Abul Hayat, reminisced about their early years in Chattogram where they shared a passion for acting that lasted throughout their lives. 

"Jamaluddin and I were childhood friends. We began acting together in Chattogram and never looked back," Hayat recalled.

While still studying at BUET, the pair continued their performances together. After graduation, they became more committed to theatre with Jamaluddin dedicating himself primarily to stage acting. 

He eventually founded his own theatre group, Nagarik Nattyangan, and remained a regular figure on television as well. 

"Despite his involvement in multiple avenues, I always considered him first and foremost an actor. His versatility made him stand out, and his passing leaves a void that can never be filled. He will always be remembered for his creative contributions," said Hayat. 

Tariq Anam Khan, another close colleague, expressed his sorrow over Jamaluddin's passing. He said, "Jamaluddin brought a new level of respect and professionalism to our theatre scene." 

"He enriched our art world with his work, and now we've lost him forever. He was a seasoned warrior in Bangladesh's cultural field, standing up against injustice and playing an active role in the 90s anti-authoritarian movement." 

Tariq and Jamaluddin shared the stage in 'Macbeth' in 1983, and although Jamaluddin was older than him, the duo developed a very close friendship that lasted till his passing. 

"We fought for the cause of theatre in Bangladesh together, and I am deeply saddened by his loss," concluded Tariq.