Humayun Ayub

Muhibbur Rahman Khan (Muhib Khan) is a popular poet, artist, journalist, columnist, TV discussant and presenter. He is adored by everyone irrespective of party and opinion for his liberal Islamic thoughts and progressive political analysis. Many well known Bangladeshi singers have presented songs written and composed by him.
He is a regular artist and discussant in the state run religious organization, The Islamic Foundation. Besides that, Muhib Khan has been frequently playing his role as a judge in many national Islamic cultural competitions. Currently he has been working as the editor of the most circulated and widely accepted national weekly ‘Likhoni’. His poetic translation of the Holy Qura’an and amazing creation of the sirat album, ‘Daastaan-e-Muhammad,’ (a lyric of the life of Prophet Muhammad SM.) are wonderful assets of Bangla literature.

Why do you think poems and songs have become popular and extensively accepted in Bangladesh and abroad?
In my poems and songs, I speak the words that lie in the hearts of the good souls of the world. I talk about truth and beauty, patriotism and national unity, communal harmony, economic emancipation, justice and political reforms, characteristic development and cultural purification. I recite and sing in favor of humanity. All of these are for the welfare of mankind as a whole.
Some of your poems and songs have widespread circulation nationally and they have been highly praised by the listeners. What are you aiming to do with your songs and poems in the future?
I want to prove that poems and songs are not only for entertainment, they can also be used as weapons of truth and humanity against injustice and barbarism. I desire to contribute in maintaining peace and stability in the world using the intrinsic force of poetry and songs. I dream of fighting against poverty, corruption, injustice and terrorism with poetry and songs and I think the original purpose of art, culture and literature should be so.
Why do you think we are experiencing political instability in Bangladesh right now and around the world?
The ultimate goal of politics should be the welfare of mankind. Sound political culture should be practiced for the sake of justice and people’s rights. Politics must be free from violence and indiscipline. Political leaders should be more tolerant and honest in order to reach that goal. And for a safe and peaceful world, the leaders of the world must develop tolerance to criticism. They need to be liberal and honor the identity and sovereignty of every nation. Egotism, jealousy and aggression can bring nothing other than the fire of war and destruction.
What are your views on Islam and Muslims around the world?
Islam revolves around the mission of salvation and welfare of humanity by establishing peace and justice in the world. Muslims all over the world should travel with patience and integrity towards that goal. There was never any nexus between Islam and terrorism.
We would like to conclude the interview with one of poems or songs if you permit us.
‘Immaterial your place and moment of birth/ your work will lead the identity/ Render benevolence, ensure well fare to the mankind irrespectively/ Humanity is great/ Humanity is great/ Humanity  is great’
Beside this, I would like to sing another song: ‘If human beings die for the crisis of humanity; what to do with politics and religion?’