Dr. Muhammad Shahidullah was a renowned Bengali linguist, philologist, and educator, often referred to as the 'Father of Bengali Linguistics.' Born in 24 Pargana (now in West Bengal, India), he made groundbreaking contributions to the study of the Bengali language, literature, and comparative linguistics. His research on the origins of Bengali and its development from Sanskrit and Prakrit is highly influential.
Shahidullah served as a professor at the University of Dhaka and was instrumental in standardizing Bengali grammar and orthography. His notable works include 'Bangla Sahitter Katha' (History of Bengali Literature) and 'Bhasha O Sahitya' (Language and Literature). He was also a fellow of the Royal Asiatic Society of London. His legacy endures in Bangladesh's academic and literary circles, with institutions and awards named in his honor.