The Struggles and Triumphs of Delwar Jahid: A Tale of Resilience and Sacrifice

By Nigar Sultana
Though Delwar Jahid was not born in Comilla, he has become synonymous with the soil and people of Comilla through his enduring contributions, particularly during Bangladesh’s independence war. As we commemorate this son of Comilla during the month of independence, let us delve into the story of his arduous life.
Delwar Jahid, a figure who would later become synonymous with the soil and people of Comilla, was not a native of the region. Born in the quaint village of Sarrabad on the banks of the old Brahmaputra river in the northern part of Narsingdi district, Delwar spent his formative years in Comilla. His humble beginnings saw him attending a mud house school typical of a middle-class family. Delwar’s educational journey took him through institutions like Comilla Thakurpara Neerada Sundari Pathshala, Ishwar Pathshala, Comilla Victoria Government College, and Chittagong University.
In late March 1971, amidst the turmoil of the impending conflict, Delwar fled Comilla for Bhairab. The invading Pakistani forces were relentlessly advancing, prompting Delwar and a few companions to join the resistance efforts. They found themselves thrust into the chaos, facing the brutality of war along the banks of the old Brahmaputra river. Their courageous act of ferrying people across the river amidst the looming threat of Pakistani troops marked the beginning of Delwar’s involvement in the liberation war, a chapter in his life that would define his legacy.
Delwar’s exploits alongside his fellow warrior, Nuru, gained recognition, and their actions were broadcast on Swadhin Bangla Betar. Nuru’s leadership, supported by Delwar, earned them respect and admiration among their peers. However, tragedy struck when Nuru fell in battle, leaving Delwar bereft but unwavering in his commitment to the cause.
Following Nuru’s martyrdom, Delwar stepped up to fill the leadership vacuum in the Mukta Narayanpur area. He was pivotal in organizing guerrilla warfare efforts, collaborating with various factions to establish effective resistance strategies. Delwar’s leadership, coupled with the guidance of seasoned veterans, facilitated cooperation between different groups, culminating in successful operations against the enemy.
Transitioning into the post-war period, Delwar redirected his focus towards education and community service. His academic pursuits, coupled with his activism, led to a diverse career spanning roles as a college principal, social welfare advocate, and journalist. Despite facing adversity, including the closure of his publication by the dictatorial regime, Delwar remained undeterred, continuing his advocacy for human rights and social justice. His unwavering commitment to his principles and community is a testament to his resilience and dedication.
Today, Delwar Jahid stands as a testament to resilience and sacrifice, embodying the spirit of liberation that defines Bangladesh’s legacy. His journey from a humble village to the forefront of the independence movement is a source of inspiration for generations, reminding us of the enduring power of perseverance in the face of adversity.
(English Translation from a 2018 published article)