Jasimuddin (1903–1976) was a celebrated Bengali poet, writer, and folklorist, widely known as the “Polli Kobi” (Poet of the Countryside). His poetry vividly captures the beauty, simplicity, and emotions of rural Bengal, making him one of the most beloved literary figures in Bangladesh.
Early Life and Education
Jasimuddin was born on January 1, 1903, in the village of Tambulkhana in Faridpur District, British India (now Bangladesh). His father, Ansaruddin Mollah, was a schoolteacher, and his mother, Amina Khatun, played a crucial role in shaping his early appreciation for folk traditions and literature.
Jasimuddin completed his early education in Faridpur and later attended the University of Calcutta, where he obtained his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Bengali Literature. During his student years, he became deeply interested in Bengali folk culture, which would later become the foundation of his literary work.
Literary Career and Contributions
Jasimuddin’s poetry is deeply rooted in the rural landscape of Bengal. Unlike many contemporary poets who focused on urban themes, he drew inspiration from the everyday lives of village people, celebrating their joys, struggles, and traditions.
One of his most famous narrative poems, Nakshi Kanthar Math (The Field of Embroidered Quilt), published in 1929, tells a tragic love story intertwined with the folk tradition of Nakshi Kantha (embroidered quilts). This poem remains one of the most iconic works in Bengali literature.
His other major works include:
- Sojan Badiyar Ghat – A romantic folk ballad.
- Rakhali – A collection of poems about village life.
- Dhan Khet – Poems portraying the beauty of agriculture and farmers’ lives.
- Beder Meye – A play based on the lives of nomadic communities.
Apart from poetry, Jasimuddin was a significant collector and compiler of Bengali folk songs. His work in folklore documentation enriched the cultural heritage of Bengal, preserving many traditional songs that might have been lost otherwise.
Influence and Themes
Jasimuddin’s poetry is characterized by its simple yet powerful language, rich imagery, and deep emotional connection to nature and rural Bengal. His themes often include:
- The beauty and harmony of village life.
- Love and human relationships.
- Social issues, poverty, and injustice.
- The impact of modernity on rural traditions.
His literary style was deeply influenced by the oral tradition of folk poetry and the songs of Bauls and boatmen of Bengal. Through his works, he painted vivid pictures of village festivals, rivers, farmers, and simple joys of rural life.
Recognition and Legacy
Jasimuddin received numerous awards for his contributions to Bengali literature and culture, including:
- The President’s Award for Pride of Performance (Pakistan, 1958)
- The Ekushey Padak (Bangladesh, 1976, posthumous)
- The Bangla Academy Literary Award (1955)
He also served as a professor of Bengali at the University of Dhaka and worked with the government in documenting and preserving Bengali folk culture.
Jasimuddin passed away on March 13, 1976, leaving behind a rich literary and cultural legacy. His poetry continues to inspire generations, reflecting the timeless beauty of rural Bengal and its traditions.
Conclusion
Jasimuddin’s literary works serve as a bridge between tradition and modernity, giving a voice to the rural people of Bengal. His love for folk culture and ability to express deep emotions through simple words make him a timeless figure in Bengali literature. Even today, his poems and folk collections remain an integral part of Bangladesh’s cultural identity.
