Suhrid Chakma

(1958–1988)

Suhrid Chakma was a poet whose heart was repeatedly stirred by the boundless natural beauty of the Chittagong Hill Tracts. Through his poetry, he expressed his emotions, desires, and aspirations with deep sensitivity. Born on June 20, 1958, in Baghaichhari under Dighinala Thana in Khagrachari district, poet Suhrid Chakma is regarded as a legendary figure in Chakma literature.

He earned his B.A. (Honours) and M.A. degrees in Bengali Language and Literature from Jahangirnagar University. In his professional life, he initially taught at the Boalkhali Orphanage and later at the Moanoghar Orphanage, where he also served as the manager of Moanoghar Shishu Sadan (Children’s Home).

Suhrid Chakma was a poet, short story writer, essayist, researcher, and critic. He holds a unique position in Chakma language and literature. He revolutionized the traditional form of Chakma modern poetry by introducing a new literary style. His thought-provoking essays on Chakma language and literature deeply moved intellectual circles.

His scholarly writings on Chakma language, literature, and heritage were published in various journals and magazines in both Bangladesh and Tripura, India. He played a pivotal role in establishing the Jumma Language Promotion Office (Juvaprod), and later, the renowned literary and cultural organization of the Chittagong Hill Tracts—Jum Aesthetic Council (JAC). He was the founding General Secretary of the Jum Aesthetic Council.

His remarkable poetry collection “Bargi” created a great stir among the literary elite and brought a fresh wave to Chakma literature. On August 8, 1988, poet Suhrid departed the literary world forever.