Kamrul Hasan Shayok at 60: The Man Who Gave Bangladesh’s Books a Global Voice

ডে-নাইট-নিউজ ; প্রকাশিত: শনিবার, ০৬ সেপ্টেম্বর, ২০২৫ খ্রিস্টাব্দ, ০৪:৩৭ পিএম;

Kamrul Hasan Shayok at 60: The Man Who Gave Bangladesh’s Books a Global Voice

On this day in 1965, in the quiet town of Syedpur, Nilphamari, a boy was born who would one day help reshape the literary destiny of a nation. Though his ancestral roots lie in Chandpur, it is in every corner of Bangladesh’s publishing world that Kamrul Hasan Shayok has truly made his mark..

Today, as he celebrates his 60th birthday, we look back at the extraordinary journey of a man whose life’s work has bridged nations, elevated Bangladeshi literature, and modernized an entire industry..

A Dream That Crossed Borders.

From the very start, Shayok was driven by more than just business ambition — he carried a dream: to see Bangladeshi books on shelves around the world, and to bring global recognition to the country’s rich literary culture..

That dream began taking shape in the early 1990s. Since 1993, Kamrul Hasan Shayok has been at the forefront of technological innovation in book publishing in Bangladesh. At a time when traditional printing was the norm, he pushed for modern tools, digital workflows, and global best practices — not just to keep up with the world, but to lead in it..

His tireless efforts helped place Bangladesh firmly on the map at international events like the Frankfurt Book Fair, London Book Fair, and Kolkata International Book Fair — where Bangladeshi publishers began to be seen, heard, and respected..

Building Institutions, Creating Impact.

Behind every strong industry stands a visionary, and Shayok’s impact goes far beyond his own ventures. His work was pivotal in securing Bangladesh’s full membership in the International Publishers Association (IPA) — a milestone that gave the nation a seat at the global publishing table..

He also played a key role in the Asia Pacific Publishers Association (APPA), where he served as Chairman of the Working Committee, helping shape regional policy and collaboration. Back home, he served as Vice President of the Bangladesh Book Publishers and Sellers Association, and as Executive Director of the Academic and Creative Publishers Association of Bangladesh..

In his entrepreneurial journey, he has helmed some of the most important names in the industry:.

Managing Director, Panjeree Publications Ltd..

Chairman, Barotopa Printers Ltd..

Director, PBS Ltd. — Bangladesh’s first bookstore chain.

Director, Dursoon Publications, Akkharpatra Prokashoni, and Words and Pages.

Together, these roles have allowed him to influence the entire publishing ecosystem — from printing presses and bookstores to publishing houses and policy forums..

Author, Mentor, Storyteller.

But Shayok’s contributions don’t stop at publishing others’ voices — he has his own stories to tell. As an author, he has written across genres, inspiring readers young and old. His works include:.

Jamie O Jadur Shim Gach (2003).

Motshokumari O Ek Ashchorjo Nogori (2020).

Mudranshoilee Nandanik Prokashonar Nirdeshika (2018).

Pandulipi Prostutkorn Sompadona O Proofreading (2019).

Pustok Utpadon Bebosthapona (2021).

These books are more than publications — they are educational tools, cultural records, and sources of inspiration for future generations of publishers, writers, and readers..

Recognition and Respect.

A man of action and intellect, Shayok’s name is associated with many of the nation’s most respected institutions. He is a lifetime member of the Bangla Academy, the Bangladesh Liberation War Museum, and the SAARC Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SAARC CCI). His affiliations also extend to the United Nations Association of Bangladesh, Printer Industry Association of Bangladesh, FBCCI, and the Dhaka Chamber of Commerce & Industry..

These associations reflect not just the scope of his work, but the respect he commands across sectors — from arts and education to commerce and policy..

A Legacy That Will Endure.

Turning 60 is a milestone, but for Kamrul Hasan Shayok, it feels more like a new chapter. His vision continues to evolve, and his influence continues to grow. To call him just a publisher would be an understatement — he is a cultural ambassador, a mentor, a nation-builder..

He has turned words into bridges, dreams into books, and books into Bangladesh’s voice to the world..

As the publishing world, and the nation, honors this remarkable man on his 60th birthday, one thing is clear: Kamrul Hasan Shayok’s story is far from over — and the next chapter promises to be just as inspiring..

Happy Birthday, Kamrul Hasan Shayok..

May your next decade be filled with the same purpose, passion, and pioneering spirit that has defined your journey so far.. .

ডে-নাইট-নিউজ /