Yesterday, the Cabinet Division disclosed this year's recipients of the highest civilian award in Bangladesh, the Swadhinata Padak.

Nine individuals and one institution have been chosen for this year's Swadhinata Padak, across several categories. Playwright Dr Mohammad Mainuddin Ahmed (Selim Al Deen) has been nominated posthumously for the award under the "Literature" category, for his contributions to the country in that sector.

The late thespian's contributions to Bangladeshi theatre are unparalleled. The playwright ignited the renaissance of modern theatre by treasuring the essence of the rural culture in the country. 

His most significant plays include, "Jaundice and various balloons" (1975), "Muntaser Fantashi" (1976), "Shakuntala" (1977), "Bashon" (1985), "Keramatmangal" (1985), "Hat Hadai" (1988), and "Hargoj" (1993), among others.He has also written the popular television projects "Nishwora Bhalobasha", "Bhangoner Shobdo Shuni" and "Chhaya Shikari", among others.

Alongside plays, Selim Al Deen also authored two poetry collections, "Kobi O Timir" (1990) and "Swapna Ramanigan" (2007), alongside his only novel "Amrita Upkshan". His plays "Kitton Khola" (1978–80) and "Chaka" (1991) were adapted into films that earned praise at home and abroad. He also wrote the dialogues for the well-acclaimed film, "Ekattorer Jishu" (1993).

He was also the recipient of the Bangla Academy award, Kathak Sahitya Puroshkar, Nandikaar Puroshkar, Best Tele-Playwright Award, National Cinema Award, Khaleqdad Chowdhury Sahitya Puroshkar (2001), Alokta Sahitya Puroshkar (2007) and the Munier Chowdhury Sammanona.

Selim Al Deen was laid to rest near the central mosque of Jahangirnagar University, where he had taught for 30 years and founded the Dramatics Department.

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