Honouring a Quiet Legend – Chief Engineer Mubashir Ahmed (2E): Forkanul Quader (6N)

We are proud to have among us several living legends who have shaped the legacy of BD Mariners — icons such as Capt. M. Shafi, Capt. Q.B.M. Rahman, Ch. Engr. Zahedur Rahman, Capt. M. Zakaria, Capt. Jalil, Ch. Engr. N.W. Khandakar, Ch. Engr. C.F. Zaman — to name just a few. Their names are etched in our collective history, and their contributions continue to inspire generations.

Yet, there are others whose contributions remain lesser-known — not because they were insignificant, but because they humbly chose to stay away from the spotlight. One such individual is Chief Engineer Mubashir Ahmed Bhai of BMA’s 2nd Batch.

Originally from Peshawar (North Pakistan) and now a UK citizen, Mubashir Bhai is a name cherished by many BD Mariners based in the UK. He has earned heartfelt respect not just for his camaraderie but for his extraordinary affection and unwavering support for Bangladeshi Mariners — treating them like his very own family. It is rare to encounter a fellow mariner from Pakistan with such deep and enduring admiration for Bangladesh.

Mubashir Bhai recently authored and published a book titled “My Bangladesh”, a deeply personal compilation of his writings since 2017. The book chronicles the achievements, memories, and milestones of Bangladeshi marine professionals — including:

• 11 articles under “The Achievements of Bangladeshi Mariners”
• 10 articles under “I Remember Marine Academy Juldia, Chittagong”
• 10 obituaries of BD Mariners
• And heartfelt pieces such as “The Story of MV Solidarity (renamed MV Banglar Kiron)”, “Nani Ki Dokan”, “The Extraordinary Progress of Bangladesh”, and “Some Anecdotes about Merchant Navy”

These writings have been regularly shared with the UK and global BD Mariners’ email hubs via our web coordinators, spreading his passion and admiration for the maritime spirit of Bangladesh far and wide.

In his own quiet, dignified way, Mubashir Bhai stands as a true friend and admirer of our community — a man of humility, depth, and boundless respect for the people and progress of Bangladesh.

Let us all take a moment to applaud his exceptional effort and acknowledge his enduring legacy as a living BMA legend. He can be reached at: mubashir2050@gmail.com

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Book Review by Ghulam Suhrawardi (6N):

Mubahir Bhai’s book is a heartfelt tribute to his love for the Bangladesh Marine Academy and his deep connection to Bangladesh as a whole. His background as a Pathan from Peshawar, combined with his experiences in Bangladesh, creates a unique perspective that enriches the narrative. The fact that the book is partly an autobiography makes it even more personal, and it seems like he has done a great job of sharing his emotions and experiences with his readers.

It’s also great to hear that Mubahir Bhai is planning to revise the book to enhance its appearance and make necessary corrections. That kind of dedication to refining and improving one’s work speaks to his commitment to both the subject matter and the readers. It’s always exciting when authors put in the effort to ensure their work is as polished as possible—wishing him the best of luck in his revisions!

Mubahir Bhai’s book beautifully captures not just his connection to the Bangladesh Marine Academy, but also the achievements and spirit of the Bangladesh Mariners. Highlighting the Academy and its role in shaping individuals is a powerful way to honor both the institution and the people who were part of it. It’s also interesting that he reflects on the memories of those who mattered most to him—it adds a deeply personal and emotional layer to the book, making it not just about the Academy but also about the relationships and experiences that shaped his journey.

The way he intertwines his own experiences with the broader achievements of the Bangladesh Mariners suggests a book that celebrates both personal and collective success. It must be a vibrant and nostalgic narrative.

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Book Review by Dr. Sajid Hussain (15E)

Printed by: Concept2Print, London, UK
Pages: 198 | Sections/Articles: 44

Marine Engineer Mubashir Ahmed, a Class One Marine Engineer Officer (Department of Transport, UK) has hailed from Peshawar, Pakistan and now lives in London. He had been trained as an Engineering Cadet in the 2nd Batch (1963-1965) of the then Mercantile Marine Academy—now the Bangladesh Marine Academy (since 1972), Juldia, Chattogram. Having spent seven transformative years in Bangladesh, both before and after its Liberation in 1971, his deep connection with the country shines through in his latest book, My Bangladesh.

This remarkable memoir is a tribute to his cherished time in Bangladesh and the indelible impact of the Bangladesh Marine Academy. With meticulous attention to detail and heartfelt sincerity, Mubashir Ahmed captures the achievements and contributions of Bangladeshi mariners, whose alma mater remains a beacon of maritime excellence.

The book is divided into 44 sections, each offering a unique glimpse into the past. It includes:

Eleven evocative articles, including “I Remember Marine Academy Juldia Chittagong,” reminiscing about his cadetship and Academy life.
Ten moving obituaries, honoring the legacy of fellow alumni.
Anecdotal narratives on significant maritime topics, such as:
MV Banglar Kiron—a ship representing Bangladesh’s proud maritime heritage.
Nani Ki Dukan (Antwerp, Belgium)—a nostalgic recollection of seafaring memories.
The extraordinary progress of Bangladesh and captivating reflections on the Merchant Navy.

What makes this book exceptionally profound is its title—My Bangladesh. It is a testament to the broad-mindedness and affection of ‘a Pakistani mariner for Bangladesh’, a country that profoundly shaped his formative years. This gesture itself is a tribute to the camaraderie, unity, and shared legacy that transcend borders.

In essence, My Bangladesh is more than a memoir—it is a richly woven tapestry of history, nostalgia, and maritime excellence. Mubashir Ahmed has masterfully encapsulated an era when Bangladesh’s maritime community was beginning to flourish, with the Bangladesh Marine Academy at its heart. His reflections provide a rare and invaluable perspective, making this book a must-read for all who hold the Bangladesh Marine Academy, its alumni in Bangladesh and in Pakistan, and the maritime profession close to their hearts.