BRAC Bank Reading Cafés explore Mughal history through 'Badshah Namdar' and 'Masnad'
BRAC Bank's Reading Cafés in Chuadanga and Dhaka recently concluded insightful discussions on two significant historical novels, 'Badshah Namdar' by Humayun Ahmed and 'Masnad' by Moshtaq Sharif.
Over the past month, members immersed themselves in these novels, exploring the depths of Mughal history and the complexities of its rulers.
'Badshah Namdar' vividly depicts Mughal Emperor Babur and his concerns about his son Humayun's overly emotional nature. Babur feared that Humayun's emotional vulnerability, manifested in his tendency to tear up easily, could be perceived as a weakness, making him an easy target for manipulation. To toughen him up, Babur handed over all the kingdom's riches to Humayun. However, the next day, Humayun shocked everyone by storming the vaults with his army and fleeing with the wealth. This gripping narrative provides a nuanced portrayal of one of the most enigmatic Mughal kings, Humayun, brought to life by the legendary author Humayun Ahmed. The discussion took place at Chuadanga Branch on August 25, 2024.
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'Masnad', on the other hand, focuses on the life of Shah Jahan, who ascended the Mughal throne in 1628, the third son of the late Emperor Jahangir. The story delves into Shah Jahan's emotional turmoil after losing his beloved wife, Mumtaz Mahal, and his subsequent decision to immortalize her memory by building the Taj Mahal. The novel offers a rich depiction of 17th-century India, weaving together love, ambition, and fratricidal conflict themes.
On August 19, 2024, Moshtaq Sharif, the author of 'Masnad' and a professor at Dhaka University, graced the event with his presence. He engaged in a thought-provoking Q&A session and expressed his admiration for BRAC Bank's unique initiative of fostering a reading culture among its officials.
In September, the Chuadanga Reading Café will discuss Humayun Ahmed's Nandito Naroke, while the Dhaka Reading Café will explore Mohammad Nazim Uddin's 'Keu Keu Kotha Rakhey'.
