UAP Literary Club’s “Meet the Author Season 5”: An In-depth Discussion on Akhtaruzzaman Elias and Social Realism

The University of Asia Pacific (UAP) Literary Club organized “Meet the Author Season 5” on May 3,2026. This edition centered on the literary world of Akhtaruzzaman Elias, particularly evaluating him as a master of social realism.
The event featured distinguished speakers including poet Piyas Majid, fiction writer Shuhan Rizwan, and writer-translator Shazed Ul Hoq Abir, who was shortlisted for the Commonwealth Short Story Prize 2026.

The program was inaugurated by Professor Takad Ahmed Chowdhury, Head of the Department of English at UAP. In his opening remarks, he emphasized the importance of literary practice, stating that consistent reading and discussion are essential for a deeper understanding of literature.
The event was divided into two segments. In the first session, the speakers shared their personal journeys of becoming writers. Piyas Majid spoke about his transition from a business studies background to becoming a poet, which deeply engaged the students.
The second session focused on the main discussion. Shuhan Rizwan analyzed the literary strength of Akhtaruzzaman Elias, particularly highlighting his novel Khowabnama. He discussed how the novel intricately weaves together rural society, history, and the complex interplay between dreams and reality. He also elaborated on how Elias’s short stories portray the lives of ordinary people, class struggles, and subtle psychological dimensions.

Shazed Ul Haq Abir, in his discussion, analyzed Chilekothar Sepai and provided critical insights into Elias’s short stories. He noted that although Elias’s short stories are concise, they are remarkably dense and powerful in both theme and artistic quality. Issues such as urban and rural struggles, political tensions, and cultural transformations are portrayed with great subtlety.
The speakers also addressed why Akhtaruzzaman Elias should be read. According to them, reading Elias is not just about literary appreciation; it is also a way to understand the socio-political history of Bangladesh, class structures, language, and cultural realities. His works encourage readers to think critically, ask questions, and develop new perspectives on society.
Piyas Majid also shared personal memories of Elias and his experiences visiting Elias’s birthplace. He discussed Old Dhaka’s life, the significance of Elias’s short stories, and the distinctiveness of his language. He further highlighted Elias’s importance from the perspective of contemporary writers.

In the Q&A session, students asked various questions about writing and literary practices. The speakers offered practical advice based on their experiences. During this session, Sazid Ul Haq Abir also briefly introduced the theme of the short story “Mofiz-er Somporke Spark Nai.”
The event concluded with a speech by the Vice-Chancellor of UAP, Professor Dr. Mohiuddin Ahmed Bhuiyan, who encouraged students to engage more actively in literary pursuits. Additionally, Mohammad Rakiv, Director of the Directorate of Student Welfare, emphasized the importance of organizing such events regularly.
The program ended with a vote of thanks to the invited guests.