Remembering Artist Nitun Kundu on His Death Anniversary

On September 22, 2006, a commemorative article written by Motiur Rahman was published in the Friday supplement of Prothom Alo, reflecting on the life and multifaceted career of the renowned artist Nitun Kundu. The feature serves as a detailed remembrance following his death in 2006, tracing his profound impact on the cultural and artistic landscape of Bangladesh. Through personal reflections and historical milestones, the publication offered readers a comprehensive sketch of a man whose dedication to the arts defined an era.

Nitun Kundu’s formal journey in the arts began when he arrived in Dhaka in 1955 to pursue higher education. He enrolled at the Dhaka Art College, where he demonstrated exceptional talent and academic dedication. His years of study culminated in 1959 when he successfully graduated with a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) degree, securing the prestigious first position in the first class. This academic triumph laid a solid foundation for his future endeavors as a pioneering artist in the region.

Throughout his illustrious career, Kundu became celebrated not only for his traditional artwork but also for prominent public installations. A major milestone in his artistic career occurred in 1992, when he undertook the construction work of the iconic SAARC Fountain in Dhaka. This monumental project stands as a testament to his engineering and artistic capabilities, capturing the public imagination and cementing his status as a leading figure in Bangladeshi sculpture and design.

Kundu's artistic footprint extended through numerous exhibitions and creative milestones, highlighted by his final solo exhibition held at the United States Information Center in 1968. Despite his diverse engagements, his passion for the core of artistic creation remained steadfast, captured in his own words: "I want to return completely to the world of fine arts. I want to stay with my artworks until the very end." This sentiment reflected his lifelong devotion to his craft, even as he balanced various commercial and public art projects.

The commemorative feature also sheds light on his personal life and family, mentioning members such as Amiti Kundu—who was born in 1974—alongside Animesh (Babu), Falguni, and Zainul Abedin. Within the narrative of his life, a poignant personal inquiry is recorded from Amiti Kundu, who asked, "Why did this happen?" This question echoes the profound grief felt by his family and the broader artistic community following his passing.

Ultimately, the retrospective published in Prothom Alo captures the essence of Nitun Kundu’s journey, honoring a visionary whose educational achievements at the Dhaka Art College and monumental public works like the 1992 SAARC Fountain left an indelible mark. His legacy continues to be remembered by colleagues, institutions like Chattogram University, and admirers who value his relentless pursuit of artistic excellence.