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When Humayun Ahmed's first novel Nondito Noroke was published, I was working as an assistant editor at the Dainik Bangla. I was so impressed after reading the book that, spontaneously, I wrote a brief review of it in my column. That very day, I felt that a new storyteller had emerged in our fiction. Over time, Humayun Ahmed wrote many novels and has since become the most popular writer in Bangladesh. Some people have doubts about his popularity, and some even make sarcastic remarks. But it has been proven that many excellent works have achieved tremendous popularity. Humayun Ahmed freed us from the clutches of cheap fourth-rate writers. There is no doubt that he has created a vast readership, which is beneficial for literature. I have no hesitation in saying that in the future, he will attain legendary status in the history of our literature.

Shamsur Rahman
Dainik Jonokontho
13th November 1998

Preface:

I was immediately attracted to the story Nondito Noroke when I saw its name in the third issue of the first year of the monthly Mukhpotro. Because in that title itself, there seemed to be a new outlook on life, a unique taste, and a glimpse of a new sky. The author was completely unfamiliar to me, yet I started reading driven by the allure of that title.

I was overwhelmed after reading it. In the story, I witnessed with amazement the work of a keen-eyed artist, a skilled creator. It felt as if I was experiencing the birth of a proficient artist, an adept shapeshifter, a wise visionary in Bengali literature.

Amid the mundanities and trivialities of life, there was a complex and divergent narrative of life's sweetness, its glory, its pain, its weakness, its deprivation, and the anguish and joyous dreams of its emptiness. Even at such a young age, the author was able to capture this in his thoughts and emotions, which left me amazed and astonished.

The overall essence of life, hidden within the diverse and multifaceted human relationships, is also evident to the author. Hence, in the small scope of this story, there is a crowd of many people, the bright sparks of numerous individuals, and a blend of fragmented images. The seemingly tranquil domestic life is filled with a multitude of connections, and through the disjointed and diverse narrative, the author brings balance and unity. His skill lies in this expertise. In the troubled life, love and compassion are the assurances.

Humayun Ahmed, though young in age, has the wisdom of an ancient seer, a zest for life, a sense of beauty, and a skilled creator's ability. I wait with the belief and expectation that in the future, he will become a distinguished artist of life.

Ahmed Sharif
16/06/72