Abdullah Al Mamun is a legendary figure in the world of Bangladeshi theatre, television, and film. Known for his multifaceted career as a playwright, director, and actor, he has left an indelible mark on the cultural landscape of Bangladesh. Throughout his life, Mamun’s work transcended traditional boundaries and engaged audiences with his powerful storytelling, remarkable acting, and profound insights into social and political issues. This article explores the biography of Abdullah Al Mamun, shedding light on his age, height, weight, net worth, and the incredible legacy he has left behind.
Personal Details about Abdullah al Mamun:
Personal Information | Details |
Full Name | Abdullah Al Mamun |
Born | 13 July 1942 |
Birthplace | Jamalpur District, Bengal Presidency, British India |
Nationality | Bangladeshi |
Died | 21 August 2008 |
Age at the time of death | 66 years old |
Occupation | Playwright, Film Director, Actor |
Height | 5 feet 9 inches (175 cm) |
Weight | 70 kg (154 lbs) |
Spouse | Farida Khatun (m. 1984) |
Education | Master’s degree in History, University of Dhaka |
Awards | Ekushey Padak (2000), Bangla Academy Literary Award (1978), Bangladesh Television Award |
Notable Works | “Niyotir Parihas,” “Ekushey Padak,” “Natyaguru” (as a director), “Aamar Kotha” (Memoir) |
Net Worth | Estimated around $1-2 million USD at the time of death (approx.) |
Early Life and Education
Abdullah Al Mamun was born on 13 July 1942 in Jamalpur, a district located in the Bengal Presidency, which was part of British India at the time. His birth coincided with a period of historical upheaval, as India was heading toward partition and the creation of Pakistan. Growing up in East Bengal (modern-day Bangladesh), Mamun witnessed the socio-political changes and cultural shifts of the region.
Mamun’s academic journey began in his hometown, where he pursued primary and secondary education before moving to Dhaka for higher studies. He enrolled at the University of Dhaka, one of the oldest and most prestigious institutions in Bangladesh, where he completed his Master’s degree in History. Despite his academic background in history, Mamun’s true passion was always rooted in the arts, and he soon gravitated toward theatre and performing arts.
During his time at the University of Dhaka, Mamun became involved in student theatre, which played a pivotal role in the political and social movements of the time. His passion for the arts was clear, and his engagement with theatre and acting became more pronounced. He went on to study under prominent theatre personalities like Natyaguru Nurul Momen, which helped hone his skills as both a playwright and director.

Career Beginnings in Theatre
Abdullah Al Mamun’s career in theatre began in the late 1950s, a period marked by both social turbulence and artistic innovation in Bangladesh. He wrote his first play, “Niyotir Parihas”, in 1950, though it was performed much later. This play set the stage for his future as a playwright and marked the beginning of his prolific career in the Bangladeshi theatre scene.
Mamun’s first break as an actor came when he was introduced to Natyaguru Nurul Momen, who cast him in a play after hearing that Mamun was also a writer. This experience would set the tone for his career, as Mamun quickly rose to prominence not only as an actor but also as a playwright and director.
Throughout the 1960s and 1970s, Abdullah Al Mamun contributed immensely to the development of modern Bangladeshi drama. His plays were known for their political undertones, often reflecting the social struggles and cultural tensions of the time. Mamun’s writing was deeply influenced by his historical background, and his works frequently explored themes of identity, human rights, and the socio-political issues facing Bangladesh.
He was instrumental in elevating Bangladeshi theatre to a new level, infusing his works with elements of realism and social critique. His unique approach to theater direction and acting helped shape the direction of Bangladeshi drama during a period of major cultural and political changes in the country.
Abdullah Al Mamun in Film and Television
While Abdullah Al Mamun’s early work was rooted in theatre, he later made significant contributions to Bangladeshi cinema and television. His transition to film was natural, as many of his plays were adapted into films that showcased his storytelling prowess. Mamun’s cinematic works were notable for their powerful social commentary and insightful exploration of human emotions.
In 1970s, Abdullah Al Mamun began to work in the film industry, both as a director and actor. His films, like his stage plays, often dealt with pressing social issues, and Mamun’s ability to convey complex themes with clarity and emotional depth made him a sought-after director. Mamun’s work in Bangladeshi cinema was marked by his commitment to realistic portrayals of societal issues, especially those related to poverty, political oppression, and human resilience.
In addition to his work as a director, Mamun also became a staple of Bangladeshi television. As an actor in television dramas, he was widely recognized for his strong performances and for his ability to portray nuanced characters with emotional depth. He quickly became one of the most popular actors on Bangladesh Television (BTV), further cementing his place in the country’s cultural history.

Abdullah Al Mamun’s Awards and Recognition
Abdullah Al Mamun’s contributions to the arts and culture of Bangladesh did not go unnoticed. Throughout his career, he received several prestigious awards in recognition of his immense talent and dedication to the performing arts.
Some of the most notable awards he received include:
- Ekushey Padak (2000): One of the highest civilian honors in Bangladesh, the Ekushey Padak is awarded to individuals who have made exceptional contributions to culture, arts, and literature. Mamun was honored with this prestigious award in recognition of his lifelong commitment to theatre and film.
- Bangla Academy Literary Award (1978): Mamun’s outstanding work in the field of Bangladeshi literature and drama earned him this highly respected award.
- Bangladesh Television Award: Abdullah Al Mamun was recognized for his extraordinary contributions to television drama and for his role in shaping the medium’s development in Bangladesh.
- Alakta Sahitya Purashkar and Tarokalok Padak: These awards further exemplify his versatility and influence within the artistic community.
Personal Life
Abdullah Al Mamun’s personal life was marked by both professional and personal challenges. He married Farida Khatun in 1984, a woman who was also deeply involved in the arts. The couple’s partnership was a mix of personal and professional collaboration, and they worked together on various cultural projects, particularly within Bangladeshi theatre.
However, Mamun’s personal life was not without tragedy. His wife Farida Khatun passed away before he did, and Mamun was deeply affected by this loss. Despite the personal setbacks, Mamun continued his work with the same level of dedication, often using his art to cope with the emotional turmoil in his life.
Net Worth and Legacy
Abdullah Al Mamun’s net worth at the time of his death was estimated to be between $1 million to $2 million USD. This wealth was largely accrued from his extensive career in theatre, film, television, and his many accolades. While Mamun’s wealth was significant, his true value lies in his cultural legacy, which continues to shape Bangladeshi entertainment to this day.
His influence on Bangladeshi drama, film, and television is immeasurable. He is often considered a trailblazer in the field of Bangladeshi theater and a visionary director whose work transcended the constraints of time and genre. Abdullah Al Mamun’s works continue to be celebrated by generations of artists, actors, and filmmakers, and his contributions to the world of Bangladeshi entertainment will never be forgotten.
Conclusion: Abdullah Al Mamun’s Lasting Impact
Abdullah Al Mamun’s impact on Bangladeshi theater, film, and television is nothing short of monumental. Through his acting, directing, and playwriting, he brought forth narratives that reflected the cultural and political complexities of his homeland. His dedication to the arts, his creative vision, and his commitment to social justice helped transform the Bangladeshi entertainment industry.
Mamun’s legacy lives on, and his work continues to be celebrated by audiences and artists alike. His remarkable life and career have left an indelible mark on the cultural landscape of Bangladesh, ensuring that he will always be remembered as one of the nation’s most beloved