Reflecting on my dad and the thoughts he inspires in me.
Shahinul Khalisdar
Tax Advisor | Business Advisor/ Taxation Expertise/ Enrolled Agent (EA)/Master of Science in Taxation (MST)/ Author
The world seems to be experiencing a decline in common sense. Recently, I received a call on WhatsApp from someone who is my mother's extended family relative who shared that his brother has taken on a role similar to that of my father. Specifically, his brother works as a deed writer at the Sylhet sub-register office, performing duties that my father used to fulfill.
I found myself lost in thought, wondering how he could possibly know my dad. After all, my father passed away on February 29, 1992, when he was in his late sixties. My mother doesn’t really know much about him either; even when he tried to share stories, she often struggled to understand. She never completed her eighth grade, and within our culture, it was deemed inappropriate for girls to continue their education once they began to mature—an unfortunate belief that shamed many families into prioritizing domestic duties over schooling.
My parents had quite the age difference, spanning 20 to 30 years. My father, in his middle age, married my mother when she was still in her twenties. It’s interesting to reflect on how their lives intertwined in a world that sometimes dictated their paths with rigid traditions.
I have fond memories of my dad from my early years. He was always carrying me around, chatting with friends and family, while I eagerly peppered him with questions to feed my curiosity. He didn't just play the role of a dad; he was also my first teacher, guiding me through the basics of reading, writing and math.
School wasn't my favorite place, so I mostly learned from him. It’s interesting to think about how, in most cases, people retire in their 50s. When my siblings and I were born, it coincided with his retirement age. But my dad was a true workaholic, deeply engaged in both his career and social life. He balanced it all with love and dedication, making those times unforgettable.
In this world, no individual can match the impact of my father. He witnessed and contributed to significant changes within India and East Pakistan's political landscape and grew up during 2nd World War. Renowned as the "Father of the East Pakistan Administrative Government," he played a pivotal role in its establishment. In 1971, he served as the Chairman of the Standing Committee of the East Pakistan Peace Committee. Throughout the 1960s, he was a prominent member of the Pakistan Muslim League, remaining a loyal supporter of the party until his passing on February 29, 1992.
Following the tumultuous events of the 1971 East Pakistan Civil War, he faced numerous political and professional challenges. Despite the adversities, he managed to maintain his dignity and honor. Though he had to go underground for a few years, he was neither arrested nor publicly humiliated during these trying times.
My father was a remarkable individual with unparalleled credentials and experience. The people in my community have limited education and resources, primarily focusing on agriculture and family matters. How can they fully appreciate my father's achievements until they attain a higher level of intellectual understanding?
Stop dreaming of being like my dad.