Today marks the birth anniversary of the iconic Dhallywood actor Akbar Hossain Pathan, widely known by his screen name ‘Mia Bhai’. Born on August 18, 1948, in Gazipur, he was the youngest of seven children born to Asgar Hossain Pathan. From his student days, Farooque was deeply involved in politics, playing an active role in the historic six-point movement of 1966. His political journey continued through the mass uprising of 1969, the 1970 elections, and eventually the 1971 Liberation War.
Despite his massive popularity as a rural-themed hero who captured the hearts of millions, Farooque refrained from celebrating his birthday for decades. The tradition ended abruptly after 1975. As a devoted follower of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman and a loyal party member, the assassination of the founding leader and his family on August 15, 1975, left the actor deeply devastated. Following that tragic event, he felt he could no longer associate his birthday on August 18 with joy or celebration.
Farooque’s cinematic journey began before the country’s independence with his debut in the 1971 film ‘Jolchobi’, directed by H. Akbar, where he starred alongside Bobita. He quickly established his talent, earning the National Film Award for Best Supporting Actor for his performance in ‘Lathial’. In 1973, he proved his acting prowess in Khan Ataur Rahman’s ‘Abar Tora Manush Ho’, followed by Narayan Ghosh Mita’s ‘Alor Michhil’ in 1974. His nationwide fame skyrocketed in 1975 with the films ‘Sujan Sakhi’ and ‘Lathial’, cementing his identity as the beloved ‘Mia Bhai’. In 2016, he was honored with the National Film Award for Lifetime Achievement.
Beyond his acting career, Farooque remained active in politics and was elected as a Member of Parliament from the Dhaka-17 constituency in the 2018 national elections. However, his tenure was cut short by declining health. After a long battle with illness, the legendary star passed away on May 15, 2023, while undergoing treatment in Singapore. His vast filmography includes notable hits such as ‘Nayanmoni’, ‘Matir Maya’, ‘Surjogrohon’, ‘Sareng Bou’, ‘Golapi Ekhon Traine’, ‘Noder Chand’, ‘Sakhi Tumi Kar’, ‘Dosti’, ‘Lal Kajol’, ‘Jhinuk Mala’, ‘Biraj Bou’, ‘Shimul Parul’, ‘Mia Bhai’, ‘Padma Meghna Jamuna’, ‘Jibon Sangsar’, and ‘Koti Takar Kabin’.
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