Dhaka, 25 June 2024- Shahjahan Bhuiyan, the notorious executioner of Bangladesh who was released from prison last year after serving a lengthy sentence, has died. Known for his role in numerous hangings while incarcerated, Shahjahan’s life after release was marked by hardship and loneliness. His passing has prompted heartfelt reflections from those who knew him, including popular actor Faruque Ahmed.
In a poignant social media post, actor Faruque Ahmed shared his memories of Shahjahan. Ahmed recalled their encounters at the book fair earlier this year, where Shahjahan’s book "How Was the Executioner's Life" was published by Kingbadanti Publications. Ahmed, who also had a book published by the same company, spent time with Shahjahan at the fair.
Ahmed recounted his conversations with Shahjahan, expressing curiosity about his experiences in prison, his thoughts during executions, and the behavior of the condemned. Shahjahan answered openly, providing a glimpse into the life of a man who had spent over 40 years behind bars.
One of the most striking moments in Ahmed's post was Shahjahan's response to the question of how he was adjusting to life outside prison. Shahjahan admitted he was struggling with freedom, feeling isolated and without purpose. "Not good. I don't have anyone. There is nothing. I don't like it," he said, reflecting the deep scars left by decades of incarceration.
Ahmed described feeling foolish for not realizing how deeply prison life had affected Shahjahan. Despite his release, Shahjahan could not find solace or meaning in his newfound freedom. When asked about his wishes, Shahjahan’s immediate response was, "If dead."
Faruque Ahmed ended his tribute with the news of Shahjahan's death, expressing hope that he would find peace in the afterlife. "Executioner Shahjahan passed away this afternoon. His wish was fulfilled. The executioner Shah Jahan will be fine on the other side," he wrote, capturing the somber reality of a man whose life was forever marked by his grim role and the long years spent in prison.
Shahjahan’s story serves as a stark reminder of the enduring impact of incarceration and the complex humanity of those who, like him, have lived lives intertwined with the justice system.
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