In the current landscape of contemporary Bangla literature, few names have emerged with as much promise and poetic resonance as Shafiq Riyan. Born on March 1 in Mirpur the ever-moving heart of Dhaka Shafiq’s childhood and adolescence were shaped by the pulse of this vibrant city, where his imagination quietly bloomed amidst the hum of machines and the collision of dreams.
His early education began at Senapalli High School, followed by higher secondary studies at Noubahini College, Dhaka. He later completed a bachelor’s degree in textile engineering from a private university. But numbers and machines could never contain the hunger of his mind. His heart wandered toward stories, verses, and the whispered truths hidden in silence. Literature, not engineering, called to him like a familiar song.
His first novel, Aj Raate Chand Uthbe Na, was published by Ghasful Publishing House at the Amar Ekushey Book Fair in 2021. The book immediately evoked a strong response from readers. His life-like language and heartwarming narration made him beloved, quickly establishing him as a true ‘readers’ writer’.
Since then, Shafiq Riyan has continued his literary journey with unwavering passion. His pen has carved a steady path through the hearts of his audience, leaving behind stories that linger long after the last page is turned. His poetry collections Bidhastha Nakkhatra and Nishiddha Kore Dao Suryaasta have become cherished works among lovers of verse. Titles like Megh Bishader Din and Bishader Chhaya, released concurrently, further cemented his place in contemporary Bengali literature. His recent novel, Bisarjan, was released at the 2025 Ekushey Book Fair, marking another milestone in his evolving career.
Beyond writing, Shafiq plays a vital role in nurturing a new generation of literary minds. As the coordinator of the Noubahini College, Dhaka Sahitya Sangha, he strives to create a vibrant space for literary practice and creative development among students.
His philosophy of literature is as graceful as his prose. ‘Life and literature,’ he believes, ‘are part of the same current intertwined, inseparable. Literature is life distilled. It captures the smallest, most ordinary moment and reveals its extraordinary truth. That is the writer’s work.’
In every line he pens, the pulse of real life can be felt intimate, raw, and deeply human. His writings offer a mirror to life, relationships, emotions, loss, hope, and despair. The depth of language and thought he brings to his work sets him apart.
For Shafiq Riyan, literature is not just a profession; it is the lifeblood of his being the inspiration of his soul. In his words, ‘Literature is the lifeblood of my life. When I start writing, life seems to be filled with new meaning and excitement.’