Manzare Hassin Murad

Manzare Hassin Murad is a Bangladeshi documentary filmmaker, independent producer, and activist.^[1] He is known for his contributions to Bangladesh’s documentary movement and service as President of the Federation of Film Societies of Bangladesh.^[2] His notable works include the documentaries Amader Chelera, Rokeya, and Ekhono '71.^[3] In 2013, Bangladesh Government awarded him the Shilpakala Padak.^[4]

Manzare Hassin Murad
মানজারে হাসিন মুরাদ
Nationality	Bangladeshi
Awards	Shilpakala Padak

Career

Manzare Hassin Murad studied film at Charles University in Prague, Czech Republic. After returning to Bangladesh, he became involved in the country's alternative film movement and later focused primarily on documentary filmmaking.^[5]

Since 2003, the Bangladesh Documentary Council has supported many of Murad’s initiatives and has recognized his contributions to ethical documentary practices and creative innovation.^[6]

In October 2008, Murad was appointed chair of the Department of Film and Media at Stamford University Bangladesh.^[7]

In 2010, Manzare Hasin Murad was appointed acting president of the Federation of Film Societies of Bangladesh (FFSB), succeeding Badal Rahman after his death. Murad committed to continuing Rahman’s unfinished initiatives, including the proposal for a National Film Policy and revisions to the Film Society Regulation Act. He also advocated for the establishment of a National Film Institute and stronger support from state-run institutions such as the Shilpakala Academy and National Film Archive.^[8]

In 2013, Murad received the Shilpakala Padak in the category of film. The award was presented by the President of Bangladesh, Abdul Hamid.^[4][9]

In 2014, Murad received the Golden Jubilee Commemorative Award for his significant contributions to the film society movement in Bangladesh.^[10]

In October 2019, he played a central role in the day-long event “Documenting Me” held at EMK Center in Dhaka, which featured a self-reflective photography exhibition and a masterclass led by Murad, highlighting his contributions to ethical and independent documentary practice.^[11][12]