Mustafa Monwar remains in ICU, condition unchanged

Eminent cultural personality Mustafa Monwar is currently undergoing treatment in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) at a private hospital. He has been diagnosed with pneumonia and has been receiving care in ICU for the past four days.

His wife, Mary Monwar, confirmed the news to The Daily Star. She stated that the artist was admitted to hospital on June 14 and remains unconscious at present. “His oxygen saturation level has dropped to 45 percent, and his condition remains unchanged.”

Earlier, family members shared a post requesting blood for the renowned artiste. “I want to say thanks to everyone for the overwhelming response to the blood donation appeal. We have managed blood. I would request everyone to please pray for his speedy recovery,” added his wife. 

It has been learned that the esteemed artist has long been suffering from various age-related health complications. In September 2024, he became critically ill and had to be placed on life support. Although he later recovered to some extent, his condition deteriorated again recently after he contracted a pneumonia-causing infection.

Mustafa Monwar is a distinguished figure in Bangladesh’s arts and cultural landscape. Although he began his professional career as a teacher, he later emerged as one of the pioneering forces behind the country’s puppet movement. His television programmes and creative initiatives for children and young audiences have enriched the childhoods of several generations.

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In recognition of his outstanding contributions to arts and culture, he was awarded the Ekushey Padak, one of the country’s highest civilian honours, in 2004. He was also honoured with the Sultan Gold Medal by the Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy in 2018.