
This day is a deeply sad day in the history of Chittagong. Because on this day we lost a brave revolutionary, struggling politician, wise writer and historically conscious Bengali scholar – Purnendu Dastidar. As a history buff, I remember with deep respect, love and gratitude the man who fought for the independence of the country, the rights of the people and the true history throughout his life. Born into the historic Dastidar family of Dhalghat village in Patiya upazila of Chittagong, Purnendu Dastidar was an extraordinary talent. This family was not only politically but also very rich in intellectual and cultural fields. Growing up in the same family with enlightened personalities like martyr revolutionary Ardhendu Dastidar, communist leaders Sukhendu Dastidar and Sharadindu Dastidar, and poet Tridib Dastidar, Purnendu was inspired by the ideals of patriotism and struggle at a very young age. After passing ISC with first division in 1927 from Chittagong College, he was admitted to Jadavpur. But his life was not limited to textbooks. During his student life, he got involved in the anti-British independence movement. As an active worker of the revolutionary organization, he became the terror of the British rulers. Active participation in the historic looting of the Chittagong Arsenal led by Masterda Surya Sen was one of the most glorious chapters in Purnendu Dastidar’s life. In that adventurous campaign on April 18, 1930, he shook the foundation of the British Empire with arms in hand. But the path of revolution was never easy. After being arrested, he had to spend a long time in prison. Jail, torture, oppression – nothing could break his morale. Even after his release, he did not stop. He joined the Communist Party of India and worked towards the dream of establishing an exploitation-free society. After the partition, he also played an active role in the politics of East Bengal. After being elected as a member of the East Bengal Legislative Assembly, he spoke out for the common people with courage. But the ruling class can never tolerate independent-minded people. After the imposition of martial law in 1948, he was sent to prison again. Later, during the reign of Ayub Khan, he spent his days in detention. Purnendu Dastidar was not only a revolutionary, but also a powerful literary and historical researcher. His writings highlight the freedom struggle of Chittagong, the sacrifice of the revolutionaries, the struggle of the masses and the cultural heritage of Bengal. His works “Swadhinata Sangrame Chittagong”, “Kabiyal Ramesh Shil”, “Birkanya Pritilata” are still valuable documents for historical research. In addition, he translated important works of world literature into Bengali. Translated books like ‘Shekhov’s Tale’ and ‘Maupassant’s Tale’ bear witness to his literary sense and international outlook. When the great liberation war began in 1971, he left for India to escape the barbaric attack of the Pakistani occupying forces. But fate did not give him more time. He fell ill on the way and died on May 9, 1971. He could not see the sunrise of independent Bangladesh, but he was one of the people who sowed the seeds of that independence. Many people in today’s generation may not know the name of Purnendu Dastidar. But history never forgets real soldiers. Those who sacrificed their lives, youth,They fought for the nation by sacrificing their dreams and happiness, they remain immortal in the pages of history. Today, on his death anniversary, I remember this great revolutionary with deep respect. May his sacrifice, struggle and ideals inspire the new generation to walk on the path of truth and justice. Tribute to Purnendu Dastidar. You are the pride of history, the pride of Chittagong, an indestructible symbol in the consciousness of Bengalis.

