Hanif Sanket, Bashir Ahmed to receive Independence Award 2026

Two prominent figures from the cultural sphere will receive the country’s highest civilian honour, the Independence Award 2026, in recognition of their outstanding contributions at the national level.

According to a press release issued by the Cabinet Division on Thursday (March 5), a total of 15 distinguished individuals and five institutions have been selected for the award this year for their significant contributions in various fields.

In the cultural category, television presenter, writer and producer Hanif Sanket has been named among the recipients. He gained widespread recognition for hosting the popular magazine programme Ityadi, which has remained a notable presence on Bangladesh’s television landscape for decades. The programme is particularly known for blending social awareness with entertainment.

The late singer Bashir Ahmed will receive the award posthumously for his contributions to music. His songs in films earned him wide popularity, and he was admired for his melodious voice and strong command of classical music. He received training from legendary classical musician Ustad Bade Ghulam Ali Khan.

Bashir Ahmed further gained recognition after working with renowned singer Talat Mahmood in the film Talash. Among his notable songs are “Amake Porate Jodi Eto Lage Bhalo”, “Jare Jabi Jodi Ja”, “Onek Shader Moyna Amar” and “Deko Na Amare Tumi Kache Deko Na”.

The government has been presenting the Independence Award annually since 1977 on the occasion of Independence Day on March 26. Each recipient receives Tk 500,000, a gold medal weighing 50 grams of 18-carat gold, a replica of the medal and a certificate of honour.