The launching of the Life and Time book by Sheikh Akij Uddin
Sheikh Akij Uddin emerged as one of the pioneering self made entrepreneurs in the early days of the Bengali Muslim community. Breaking away from tradition and established institutions, he forged his own path as an entrepreneur. Bonik Barta recently released a book titled “Sheikh Akij Uddin: Life and Time,” shedding light on various aspects of the life of this remarkable self-taught and self-made entrepreneur. A book publication festival was organized at the ballroom of Panpacific Sonargaon in the capital city of Shanina.
Dr. Mosiur Rahman, the Prime Minister’s Economic Affairs Adviser, graced the event as the chief guest. Mohammad Abdul Majid, the former chairman of NBR, attended as a negotiator, alongside renowned economic analyst Mamun Rashid, Rashed Al Mahmud Titumir, Chairman of Dhaka University’s Development Studies Department, and Syed Farhat Anwar, former director of Dhaka University IBA. Distinguished individuals such as Manwar Hossain, Chairman of Anwar Group, Nasser Ejaz Vijay, Chief Executive of Standard Chartered Bangladesh, FH Ansari, Managing Director of ACI Agrolink Limited, Mominul Islam, Managing Director and CEO of IPDC, and others were also present.
Dewan Hanif Mahmud, the editor and publisher of Banik Barta, delivered the opening speech, followed by the screening of a documentary about Sheikh Akij Uddin.
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Mohammad Abdul Majeed, the former chairman of NBR, highlighted Sheikh Akij Uddin’s role in the development of the industrial sector in Bangladesh. He emphasized the importance of nurturing such entrepreneurs in the new generation, as they play a significant role in the country’s economy. Starting his journey as a 7-8 year old boy with only 17 rupees, Sheikh Akij Uddin overcame numerous challenges and achieved success. Despite limited formal education, he ensured his children received an education and they are now effectively managing his industrial empire. A garment entrepreneur expressed deep regret, fearing the end of his business. When asked for the reason, he revealed that his two children, studying abroad, showed no interest in returning to the country. They believed that running their garment business in their home country was unnecessary, highlighting a concerning trend of talented individuals leaving.
Mamun Rashid, an economic analyst, pointed out the lack of books or case studies on entrepreneurship in Bangladesh. He observed that many successful global business magnates inherited family businesses, while the issue of defaulters remains a major crisis for banks and their chairmen. In contrast, Sheikh Akij Uddin stood out due to his distinctive approach.
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Rashed Al Mahmud Titumir, Chairman of Dhaka University’s Development Studies Department, recognized Sheikh Akij Uddin’s pivotal role in the history of Bengali Muslim entrepreneurship. He expressed curiosity as to why such an accomplished entrepreneur did not engage with banks, noting the higher profitability of foreign banks compared to state-owned ones.
Mosiur Rahman, the Prime Minister’s Economic Adviser, highlighted Sheikh Akij Uddin’s remarkable success despite lacking formal education. He commended his courage to undertake new initiatives and recognized the importance of understanding market demand to ensure successful investments – a lesson Sheikh Akij Uddin grasped well.
Sheikh Bashir Uddin, Managing Director of Akij Bashir Group, reminisced about his father, who crafted luxury goods himself but never embraced a lavish lifestyle. His father embodied frugality without being stingy, fostering a close bond among siblings. Respectful interactions among family members were instilled by their father’s teachings.
