Tariqul Islam Shanto remains one of the brightest stars in the history of Bangladeshi comic books. A gifted storyteller and visionary cartoonist, Shanto captivated an entire generation of readers during the 90s and early 2000’s. He set a new benchmark in the comic scene of Bangladesh by founding the country’s first dedicated comic book publishing house—Kolpodut. It was a groundbreaking initiative that paved the way for many modern comic publishers, including our very own Rongon Publications. We are proud to say that we owe much of our inspiration to his bravery and vision.
In today’s Writer’s Spotlight, we remember the remarkable life and legacy of this pioneer.
A Life of Passion and Creativity
Born and raised in Dhaka, young Shanto began his creative journey with Unmad, the nation’s most beloved satirical magazine. Though he didn’t work there for 47 years, Unmad itself has stood strong for nearly five decades, and Shanto played a vital role in its evolution. Starting off with poems and prose, he quickly earned a name as a talented cartoonist. His artistic journey extended to publications like Daily Bhorer Kagoj, Tarokalok, Kishore Tarokalok, Prothom Alo’s Alpin, and Jugantar’s Bichchhu. His work in Kishore Tarokalok earned him particular acclaim.
Over the years, Shanto authored 36 comic book titles, with Shantanu Detective Comics being the most popular. Other beloved works include Potkar Khotkabaji, The Adventures of Tutu-Putu-Kutu, Gultu, a compilation of his Unmad cartoons titled Unmad Artist Special, and over a dozen children’s books and novels. His book Jongla Mamar Shikari Dol sold over 5,000 copies at the Ekushey Boi Mela, a testament to his storytelling talent. His rhyme book Sheora Gachhe Bhooter Chha earned him the prestigious Meena Media Award in the Creative Category.
A Creative Force in Television
In his later years, Shanto focused more on television. He wrote and directed numerous popular dramas, including Prokrito Shundori Patree Chai, Nayok Nayok Bhab, Chorer Mon Police Police, Shamsu Baburchir Ijjot, Tobuo Prem, Ghore Ghore Durgo, and Mayabi Chhayatole. He also acted in his self-directed plays and was an enlisted actor at BTV. His final work, the drama serial “Source”, was awaiting release at the time of his passing.
Beyond his roles as a writer and director, Shanto was a bold entrepreneur. His publishing house, Kolpodut, was the first of its kind in Bangladesh—an attempt to create a dedicated space for comics in a market that had long ignored the medium.
A Personal Life of Quiet Struggles
Despite his remarkable output, Shanto faced significant challenges in his personal life. In Bangladesh, comics were long viewed as children’s entertainment and not taken seriously as an art form. This cultural perception prevented Shanto from receiving the recognition he deserved, both professionally and personally.
He remained unmarried, as many in society failed to see value in his work or consider comic artistry a respectable career. These reflections, shared by his former mentor Ahsan Habib, give us a glimpse into the struggles of an artist ahead of his time.
Shanto lived a humble life in Nakhalpara with his mother and brother until his untimely passing at the age of 39. He now rests peacefully in Banani Graveyard, remembered not just as an artist, but as a trailblazer and a dreamer.
A Legacy That Inspires
While his work may not have reached the masses during his lifetime, Shanto laid the foundation for a thriving industry. Today, his long-forgotten comics are resurfacing in secondhand markets, sought after by collectors and cherished by fans who grew up with his stories.
At Rongon Publications, we stand on the shoulders of giants like Tariqul Islam Shanto. His courage and commitment gave rise to an industry that, while giving him little in return during his life, now flourishes thanks to his pioneering efforts.
May Tariqul Islam Shanto rest in peace. May we continue to honor his legacy by telling powerful stories, pushing creative boundaries, and never forgetting the man who paved the way for us all.