Today is the 103rd birth anniversary of internationally renowned painter SM Sultan. Born on August 10, 1924 in the village of Machimdia in Narail, this artist has given a new dimension to the lives of ordinary people, farmers and working people of Bangladesh through his paintings.

Sheikh Mohammad Sultan, who was known as SM Sultan in the art world, was the son of father Mecher Ali and mother Maju Bibi. His father was a mason. Growing up in a family of poverty, Sultan was affectionately known as ‘Lal Mia’ by his parents as a child. Later, that Lal Mia became one of the best painters in the country.

One of the characteristics of SM Sultan in painting was to powerfully portray the life struggles of farmers, fishermen, workers and hardworking people of Bengal. The muscular strength and expression of the human body he painted exuded confidence. His deep connection with nature, soil and people has been repeatedly reflected in his artwork.

In addition to painting, he also had a special interest in music and wildlife. He could play the flute skillfully. He was also interested in raising various animals. As a result, his lifestyle was quite unconventional, diverse and unique.

In recognition of his outstanding contribution to the field of art, SM Sultan received various honors including the Ekushey Padak and the Swadhinata Padak. He was also honored by various institutions and organizations at home and abroad. His artwork played an important role in introducing Bangladeshi painting to the international arena.

This renowned artist died on October 10, 1994, while ill, at the Jessore Combined Military Hospital. He was later buried on the banks of the Chitra River in the Kurigram area of ​​Narail city.

The SM Sultan Memorial Museum has been established in Narail to preserve his memory. This institution, built around the various souvenirs used by the artist and his works, has become a center of attraction for visitors from home and abroad. The natural environment of the museum premises also fascinates visitors. In addition, the Sultan’s mobile Shishu Swarg or double-decker boat on the Chitra River is also one of the centers of interest for visitors.

Various programs have been taken up in Narail on the occasion of the birth anniversary. These include Quran Khatam, a painting festival for children and teenagers, paying homage at the artist’s tomb, art camps, painting exhibitions for children and teenagers, discussion meetings and awarding honors to talented artists.

Tandra Mukherjee, curator of the SM Sultan Memorial Museum, said that preparations have been made for colorful events to mark the artist’s 103rd birth anniversary. In these programs, there are also arrangements to give the ‘SM Sultan Honorary Medal’ to painter Professor Dr. Abdus Sattar.

Meanwhile, in addition to preserving the memory and artwork of SM Sultan, initiatives are being taken to develop the museum area and utilize its tourism potential. Various development proposals have been sent to the relevant ministries to make the area more tourism-friendly, museum officials said.

For the people of Narail, SM Sultan is not just a painter; he is one of the main symbols of the district’s cultural identity. On the birthday of this artist who captured the life of the land and people in paint and canvas, ‘Lal Mia’ is being remembered anew, who has presented the life and struggle of the people of Bangladesh to the world through his artwork.