Nine eminent citizens, one band to receive Ekushey Padak 2026

The government has decided to award the Ekushey Padak 2026 to nine eminent citizens and a rock band in recognition of their outstanding contributions in various fields.

The decision was approved on Thursday by the Advisory Council following a proposal from the Ministry of Cultural Affairs, according to the CA Press Wing.

This year’s awardees have been selected for their significant roles in enriching the country’s cultural, artistic, educational and journalistic landscape.

The Ekushey Padak is the country’s second-highest civilian honour and is conferred annually on individuals and organisations for exceptional contributions to national life.

In the field of film, veteran actress Farida Akhter Babita has been chosen for her lifelong contribution to Bangladeshi cinema.

Professor Md Abdus Sattar will receive the award for his work in fine arts, while internationally acclaimed architect Marina Tabassum has been selected for her contribution to architecture.

The music category includes legendary musician Ayub Bachchu, who will be honoured posthumously, and popular rock band Warfaze for their long-standing influence on the country’s music scene.

Orthi Ahmed has been selected for her contribution to dance and noted theatre personality Islam Uddin Palakar for his work in drama.

In journalism, senior journalist Shafik Rehman has been named as a recipient of the Ekushey Padak 2026.

Professor Mahbubul Alam Majumdar will receive the award for his contribution to the field of education, while sculptor Tejas Halder Jash has been selected for his work in sculpture.