Veteran cinematographer Abdul Latif Bachchu passes away at 83

Abdul Latif Bachchu, a veteran Bangladeshi cinematographer whose career spanned more than five decades and 65 feature films, died on Sunday afternoon in Dhaka. He was 83.

Bachchu had been suffering from multiple health complications for some time and was taken abroad for advanced treatment in July this year. After returning to Bangladesh, his condition appeared stable. He was scheduled to undergo a surgical procedure on Sunday evening, but died earlier in the day at 12:30pm at a private hospital in Dhanmondi.

The news of his death was confirmed to Prothom Alo by his brother-in-law, noted cinematographer Anwar Hossain Bulu.

"His lungs were badly infected. He also had diabetes and kidney complications," Bulu said. "He began feeling unwell in the morning and was rushed to the hospital. After examination, the doctors informed us that he had passed away around half past twelve."

Bachchu is survived by three sons, all of whom live in the United States. According to family sources, his body will be kept in cold storage until they return to Bangladesh, after which a final decision regarding his burial will be taken.

Born on January 9, 1942, in Sirajganj, Abdul Latif Bachchu became involved in cinematography even before Bangladesh's independence. He began his career as an assistant cinematographer, gradually establishing himself as a full-fledged director of photography at a time when the craft was still evolving in the country.

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He started out as an assistant to legendary cinematographer Sadhan Roy on films such as "Alor Pipasha", "Agantuk" and "Darpachurna". In 1968, he made his debut as a principal cinematographer with the film "Rupkumari".

After independence, Bachchu worked on "Obujh Mon", produced by Chitra Zahir and directed by Kazi Zahir, further cementing his place in the industry. Over the years, he served as cinematographer on 65 films, contributing to some of the most visually defining works of popular Bangladeshi cinema.

Bachchu also stepped into direction, making around nine feature films. His notable directorial works include "Jadur Banshi", "Dipkanya", "Notun Bou", "Mr Maula" and "Protarok".

In addition to his creative work, Bachchu remained deeply involved in professional bodies. Until recently, he served as president of the Bangladesh Cinematographers' Association. His contributions were recognised with several honours, including the Fazlul Haq Smriti Award, introduced by Channel i, as well as awards from the Bangladesh Film Journalists' Association (BACHSAS).