Renowned Bangladeshi artist and pioneer of puppet art Mustafa Monowar has been undergoing treatment in the ICU for several days due to pneumonia-related complications. Following reports of his illness, the Ministry of Cultural Affairs extended financial assistance to support his medical care. On Monday morning, Cultural Affairs Minister Nitai Roy Chowdhury and State Minister Ali Nawaz Mahmud Khayyam visited Monowar at Square Hospital in Dhaka, spending time with his family and handing over a financial aid cheque.

According to the ministry, the government remains committed to standing beside those who have made significant contributions to the nation’s art and culture during times of crisis. The ministry also expressed wishes for the artist’s speedy recovery.

Monowar’s wife, Mary Monowar, earlier told the media that his condition had worsened, leading to his hospital admission. The artist had previously been critically ill in 2024 but recovered before this recent relapse caused by pneumonia.