Tagore University of Creative Arts (TUCA) has conferred the “Srijonkola Gunijon Sommanona 2026” on renowned actor, director, writer, artist and advertising filmmaker Afzal Hossain.

The university honoured him in recognition of his contributions to the creative arts at a programme featuring discussions, cultural performances and an interactive session, according to a press release.

TUCA Board of Trustees Chairman Robin Khan chaired the programme.

Lieutenant General Chowdhury Hasan Sarwardi (Retd), Bir Bikrom; Shornokishore Network Foundation Founder and Chairman Farzana Rashid Brownia; and University of Dhaka Department of Dance Assistant Professor Monira Parveen attended as special guests.

TUCA Honorary Academic Adviser and University of Dhaka Department of Anthropology Chairman Dr Md Rafiul Islam delivered the welcome address.

Heads of departments, faculty members, officials, staff, students and invited guests also attended the programme.

During the award segment, TUCA Department of Theatre Lecturer Abdur Razzak presented a brief account of Afzal Hossain’s life and career.

Department of Music Lecturer Nishat Tabassum read out the citation.

Department of Business Administration Lecturer and Coordinator Niger Sultana conducted the programme.

Students from the departments of Theatre, Music, Dance and Fashion Design participated in the cultural programme.

The performances included theatre, group songs, dance and a fashion show.

Department of Music Lecturer Kaniz Khandaker Mitu performed a Lalon song.

After receiving the honour, Afzal Hossain spoke about his creative journey and shared experiences from his career.

He later participated in an interactive session with students and answered their questions.

“Afzal Hossain is a versatile creative figure whose work has entertained audiences, encouraged reflection and offered new ways of looking at art and beauty,” Robin Khan said.

“He is not merely an actor, filmmaker or artist to us, but one of the most versatile creative figures of our time.

“His work has entertained us, made us think, encouraged us to question and inspired us to see beauty from new perspectives,” he added.