Staff reporter,Dhaka: The Royal University of Dhaka (RUD) hosted a commemorative meeting and ‘Dua Mahfil’ (prayer session) at the university auditorium on Wednesday, October 29, at 4:00 PM. The event was organized to observe the 41st death anniversary of Alhaj A.K.M. Zillur Rahman, the revered father of Dr. H.B.M. Iqbal,
the Honourable Chairman of the RUD Board of Trustees, a former Member of Parliament, the Founder of Premier Bank and Premier Group Foundation, and a valiant Freedom Fighter.
The ceremony respectfully recalled the deceased’s impactful life, his devotion to education and philanthropy, and his immense contributions to social welfare.
Vice-Chancellor Praises Philanthropic Legacy:
The memorial began with a session chaired by the University’s Vice-Chancellor, Professor Dr. A.N.M. Meshquat Uddin.In his address, the Vice-Chancellor stated: “The esteemed father of Freedom Fighter Dr. H.B.M. Iqbal, the Founder of Premier Bank and Foundation and the Honourable Chairman of RUD’s BoT, was a dedicated social worker and a great lover of education. As a result of these noble qualities, his worthy successors are well-established and successful in society. We see him being remembered with deep reverence even forty-one years after his passing. The memory of a selfless personality like him inspires us all.”
Speakers Highlight Contributions to Education and Liberation War
Also addressing the memorial were Professor Dr. Md. Abu Bakar Siddique (Dipu Siddiqui), Dean of the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences and Acting Controller of Examinations, and Md. Moshiur Rahman, Deputy Registrar and Registrar-in-Charge.
Professor Dr. Dipu Siddiqui hailed Alhaj A.K.M. Zillur Rahman as a great philanthropist, social worker, and righteous individual. He elaborated:
“A.K.M. Zillur Rahman did not limit his scope to only social service and charity. He actively inspired many youths, including his son Dr. H.B.M. Iqbal, to participate in the Great War of Liberation. This inspiration remains a unique example for the current generation. Although Dr. H.B.M. Iqbal returned victorious from the Liberation War, he was wounded in action. Dr. Iqbal has dedicated himself to creating beacons of quality education,
establishing two private universities and many other educational institutions, inspired by his late father. Furthermore, he has founded multiple industrial ventures, including international hotels, creating job opportunities for thousands of people. Notably, the Zillur Rahman Premier Bank School and College in Bhairab has repeatedly been recognized as the best educational institution in Kishoreganj district. The trajectory of the deceased’s work proves he was a truly visionary figure.” He concluded by praying for the eternal peace of the departed soul.
Md. Moshiur Rahman commented: “Undoubtedly, he was a man of great achievement and a great benefactor. The benefits of the path he showed and his foresight are still visible in society today. People like him lay the foundation for a nation.”
Dua Mahfil and Attendance:
The solemn event concluded with a special Dua and Milad Mahfil seeking the eternal repose of Alhaj A.K.M. Zillur Rahman. The program was hosted by Lecturer Md. Arif Hossain.Chairpersons, faculty members, officials, and admirers of the deceased participated in the Milad Mahfil and final prayers, paying their respects. Attendees included: Associate Professor Murad Hasan (Head of Business Administration), Sharmin Sultana (Head of CSE Department), Aminul Ashraf (Head of Hotel & Tourism Department), Assistant Professor Amena Khatun, Lecturer Shamima Siddika, Lecturer Mitanur Rahman, Finance Director Mahmuda Begum, IT Manager Mohammad Shamsul Islam, and Audit Officer Suhrid Zaman, among others.