Dear Tofail Bhai,
In geography class, I once read that the Earth completes one full rotation on its axis in 23 hours, 56 minutes, and 4 seconds. Yet, we round it off to 24 hours and call it a day. To balance those missing 3 minutes and 56 seconds, we add an extra day every four years—so that time remains in rhythm, the calculation complete.
I’m no scientist, and such precise analysis is beyond my depth. But I often wonder—within that subtle rotation lies the secret of life itself: the dance of dawn and dusk, the rhythm of creation and renewal.
Our society and our history, too, revolve around a few luminous souls—whose wisdom, courage, and leadership give meaning to time itself.
From the historic Six-Point Movement announced by Bangabandhu in February 1966 to the Mass Uprising of January 24, these are not just dates—they are footsteps of freedom’s architects.
And among those indelible footprints shines your name brightly—Tofail Ahmed.
It was 1969—an era of upheaval. Bangladesh was still East Pakistan. Sheikh Mujibur Rahman had not yet been called Bangabandhu.
And there, in the vast sea of people gathered at the Racecourse Ground on February 23, you — and you alone — bestowed upon him that immortal title: “Bangabandhu.”
That single word, first uttered by your voice, later became the very emblem of our national identity.
Under your leadership, the students of Bangladesh led the Mass Uprising of January 24, shaking the foundations of Ayub Khan’s iron rule. At the time, you were a student of Soil Science at the University of Dhaka.
And I often wonder—why soil science?
Perhaps because the scent of this very soil, this beloved land and its people, was the truest inspiration behind your politics.
Tofail Bhai, you are not merely a politician—you are a living chapter of Bangladesh’s history.
Standing beside the Father of the Nation, you helped turn the dream of freedom into reality.
Your contributions are intertwined not only with the history of our politics but with the identity of Bangladesh itself.
Today, October 22, on your birthday, I offer you my deepest respect and affection.
Even through long illness, your resilience, compassion, and love for the country remain an enduring lesson for all of us.
May Almighty Allah bless you with health, peace, and strength.
Your life reminds our generation how history is built—and how a nation is shaped through courage and love.
Stay well and love.
Happy Birthday, dear Tofail Bhai.
Wishing you continued good health and a long, peaceful life.
Yours sincerely,
Shah J. Choudhury
