Dhaka University Vice Chancellor Prof Dr Md Akhtaruzzaman on Friday expressed deep shock and sorrow at the death of writer and researcher Professor Panna Kaiser, former Member of Parliament and President of Central Khelaghar Asor.
In a condolence message, he prayed for eternal peace of the departed soul and conveyed deep sympathy to the members of the bereaved family.
Panna Kaiser, wife of martyred intellectual Shahidullah Kaiser and also mother of actress Shomi Kaiser, died at a hospital in the city today at the age of 73.
DU VC said Panna Kaiser was a unique example of profound wisdom and vigor.
The country has lost a Liberation War researcher, writer and devoted children's organizer at her death, he said, adding that she will stay alive in the hearts of people with her work.
Kaiser was born on May 25 in 1950 at her village home at Payalgacha of Barura upazila under Cumilla district. Her family name is Saifunnahar Chowdhury.
In 1969 during the mass-upsurge movement, she married youth intellectual and writer Shahidullah Kaiser.
On December 14, 1971, just two days before the country's victory against Pakistani occupational force in the great Liberation War, Shahidullah Kaiser was picked up from his house by al-Badr forces and he never returned home. Panna Kaiser became widow within two and half years.
She took care of the family and brought up her two offspring Shomi Kaiser and Amitav Kaiser in the absence of her husband.
After completing post-graduation in Bengali Literature from the University of Dhaka, she went into the teaching profession at Badrunnesa Women College.
She was a presidium member of the children's organization 'Khelaghar' since 1973. In 1990, she assumed responsibility as the head of this organization.
She penned several books including 'Muktijuddho: Aage O Pore', 'Mukti', 'Nilimai Neel', 'Hridoye Bangladesh', 'Manush', 'Russeller Juddhojatra', 'Na Panna Na Chuni'.
Panna Kaiser was a member of parliament of the women reserved seat of the ruling Awami League during 1996 to 2000.
She received Bangla Academy Literary Award 2021 for her significant contribution in the research of the Liberation War.
