Dabirul Islam Choudhury


Dabirul Islam Choudhury was a British-Bangladeshi community leader, poet, and philanthropist. He is widely known for his extensive charitable fundraising activities, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, and for his long-standing service to immigrant communities in the United Kingdom. He was appointed an Order of the [British Empire|Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE)] for his humanitarian contributions.

Early life and education

Choudhury was born on 1 January 1920 in Kulonj village, Derai Upazila, Sunamganj District, then part of British Assam. In 1957, he moved to the United Kingdom to pursue studies in English literature at King's College in London.

Career

After moving to the United Kingdom in 1957, Choudhury devoted his life primarily to community service and humanitarian work. He assisted immigrant communities, particularly British Bangladeshis, with social integration, language support, housing, and employment.
Alongside his community work, he is known as a poet and writer, having authored numerous poems and literary works in Bengali. Choudhury later gained international recognition for his charitable fundraising, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic in [the United Kingdom|COVID-19 pandemic], when his efforts raised significant funds for healthcare and humanitarian causes.

Death

Choudhury died on 13 January 2026 at the Royal [London Hospital] in East London at the age of 106. His family announced that he passed away in the early hours of that day.

Awards