The quiet reminiscence of old friends and admirers channeled the spirit of one of Bangladesh’s most beloved figures, “Shilpi Bhai”. They were gathered to celebrate the 91st birth anniversary of the late artist and master puppeteer, Mustafa Monwar.

For decades, Mustafa Monwar’s work has stood at the crossroads of tradition and innovation. His puppetry transformed the medium into an art form of depth and wonder, while his watercolors—delicate yet powerful—continue to inspire awe. To generations of Bangladeshis, he is more than an artist; he is a cultural institution.

Mustafa Monwar, lovingly known as Bangladesh's "Puppet Man," has been a towering figure in the country's artistic and cultural landscape. Born on September 1, 1935, Monwar’s contributions to puppetry, painting, visual arts, and television have made him a symbol of creative freedom and expression.