The Government of Bangladesh has decided to confer the Ekushey Padak 2026 on nine individuals and one music band. The announcement came in a press release issued by the Events Branch of the Ministry of Cultural Affairs.
The award recognises special contributions in different fields.
In acting, Farida Akhtar Bobita will receive the honour. Professor Dr Md. Abdus Sattar has been selected in fine arts. Architect Marina Tabassum will be awarded in architecture.
Late musician Ayub Bachchu has been nominated posthumously for music. In dance, the award goes to Orthi Ahmed. Islam Uddin Palakar has been selected for his work in Palagaan, a traditional folk performance art.
In journalism, Shafik Rehman will receive the award. Professor Dr Mahbubul Alam Majumdar has been chosen for education. Sculptor Tejas Haldar Joss will also be honoured.
The band Warfaze will receive the award as an institution for its contribution to music.
Under government policy, each recipient will receive Tk 400,000 as a one-time cash prize. They will also receive a 35-gram gold medal, a replica, and a certificate of honour.
The Ekushey Padak was introduced in memory of the martyrs of the Language Movement. The government has presented the award every year since 1976. It is one of the highest civilian honours in the country.
The award recognises contributions in literature, culture, education, research, journalism, social work and other fields. It highlights the role of individuals and institutions in shaping national life.
The formal award ceremony is expected to take place as part of the annual observance marking the Language Movement, according to official procedure.