A New Wave of Literary Excellence

Bangladesh, with its rich literary history rooted in Bangla and Urdu, is now experiencing a renaissance as a new generation of authors makes their mark globally. 

This wave of writers is bridging the gap between tradition and modernity, often writing in English and gaining international recognition. 

Here’s a look at the top 10 rising authors who are redefining the literary landscape of Bangladesh.

1. Tahmima Anam

Tahmima Anam, born in Dhaka in 1975, has carved a name for herself as a novelist and columnist. Coming from a family with a literary legacy, she debuted with A Golden Age in 2007, a gripping novel that won the Commonwealth Writers’ Prize for Best First Book in 2008.

Her sequel, The Good Muslim (2011), solidified her reputation. Beyond novels, her essays and articles, such as Bangladesh at the Crossroads and My Hero Rokeya Sakhawat Hossain, reflect her engagement with societal issues.

2. Rashid Askari

A prolific academic and writer, Rashid Askari began as an English lecturer at Kushtia Islamic University. His collection The Dying Homeland and essays such as Deconstructing Thoughts showcase his ability to address cultural and political themes with depth and clarity.

His versatility as a writer of fiction, essays, and critiques makes him a vital voice in Bangladeshi literature.

3. Maria Chaudhuri

Maria Chaudhuri burst onto the scene with Beloved Strangers (2014), a memoir published by Bloomsbury. Her work captures personal and cultural dissonance, weaving narratives of her life into universal themes of belonging and identity.

Despite hailing from a musical family, she has embraced storytelling as her chosen path, becoming a key figure in the new wave of Bangladeshi writers.

4. K Anis Ahmed

As a writer and publisher, K Anis Ahmed contributes significantly to the country’s literary sphere.

His books, Good Night, Mr. Kissinger and The World in My Hands, explore themes of identity, power, and resilience. As a co-founder of Dhaka Tribune and Bengal Lights, Ahmed also champions emerging Bangladeshi voices.

5. Kaiser Haq

Kaiser Haq, born in 1950, is a poet, translator, and academic whose works have gained international acclaim. A veteran of the Liberation War, his poetry reflects the complexities of Bangladesh’s cultural and historical tapestry.

Collections like The Wonders of Vilayet and Black Orchid highlight his mastery in capturing the everyday with a touch of universal relevance.

6. Farah Ghuznavi

Farah Ghuznavi has gained recognition as a storyteller whose works traverse themes of identity, gender, and societal challenges. Her stories, such as The Path and Judgment Day, have been featured in international anthologies.

Through her writing, Farah brings Bangladesh’s narratives to a global audience.

7. Mahmud Rahman

Mahmud Rahman’s storytelling is deeply rooted in his experiences during Bangladesh’s Liberation War.

His debut collection, Killing the Water (2010), and his translation of Mahmudul Haque’s Kalo Barof (Black Ice, 2012) reveal his ability to convey powerful stories of survival and resilience. Now based in California, Rahman continues to write and share his unique voice.

8. Khademul Islam

An editor, translator, and writer, Khademul Islam is a dynamic figure in Bangladeshi literature. As the Literary Editor of Dhaka Tribune and Bengal Lights, he nurtures emerging talents.

His nonfiction book Shooting at Sharks (2014) highlights his skill in combining narrative and reportage, making him a leading voice in contemporary Bangladeshi writing.

9. Afsan Chowdhury

Afsan Chowdhury is not just a writer but also a journalist, historian, and social activist. His works, such as Media in Times of Crisis and Biswasghatokgon (The Betrayers), delve into history and human rights, offering profound insights into Bangladesh’s socio-political realities.

10. Fakrul Alam

Fakrul Alam is a translator, critic, and scholar whose work has brought Bangladeshi literature to global audiences.

His translations, including The Essential Tagore, have made the works of Bengali luminaries accessible to the world. His academic writings, such as Imperial Entanglements, further cement his stature as a leading literary figure.

The rising authors of Bangladesh are not only redefining the nation’s literary tradition but also placing it on the global stage.

Through their diverse narratives and creative brilliance, these writers exemplify the power of literature to transcend boundaries and connect cultures.

Their contributions ensure that Bangladesh continues to shine as a beacon of literary excellence.