Dadabhai-a man who wove dreams for children

Rokonuzzaman Khan Dadabhai (1925-1999) was a noted litterateur, journalist and founder of the children's organisation Kachi Kanchar Mela. He was born in Pangsha, Rajbari on April 9, 1925.

But he hailed from Bheramara in Kushtia. His father's name was Mukhairuddin.

His grandfather Mohammad Rawshan Ali Chowdhury was the editor of the monthly magazine Kohinoor. Dadabhai's initiation in journalism happened through the Daily Ittehad (published from Kolkata) in 1948. He was the editor of the children's section. Dadabhai jointed the Daily Ittefaq in 1955 as the editor of the Mufassil section. Simultaneously he took charge of the children's section. Eventually he became the editor of literature and feature desk of the newspaper.Dadabhai formed the children's organisation Kochi Kanchar Mela in 1956. He was the chief of the organisation till death. In his illustrious career, Dadabhai performed several important roles in different organisations. He received the Bangla Academy Award in 1968 and the Shishu Academy Award in 1994.Among his notable works for children are - Ajob Holeo Gujob Noy, Hattima Tim and Khokon Khokon Daak Pari.

Rokonuzzaman Khan Dadabhai passed away on December 3, 1999. In 2000, he received the Swadhinata Dibosh Award (posthumous).

Dada was renowned among the people as a man of simple and gentle demeanour. People loved him very much for his polite manner. Most important of all is that he was a man who was dedicated to peace. All through his life and his activities he tried to uphold the mission of peace in the society.