Dhaka: President Abdul Hamid on Thursday expressed profound shock at the death of Ekushey Padak winning author Shawkat Ali.

In a condolence message, President Hamid said the demise of Shawkat is really an irreparable loss for the Bengali Literature.

He also prayed for the eternal salvation of the departed soul and also expressed sincere sympathy to the bereaved family.

Shawkat Ali passed away at a city hospital on Thursday morning at the age of 82.