Abdul Awwal was born in a village that was once known as Chandradwip, where it is believed that ancestors from Arabia settled and engaged in fishing and fish trading. He was the fourth of five brothers and one sister. His father passed away when he was only five years old. Despite facing financial constraints where his elder brothers could not afford to support his education, Abdul Awwal was exceptionally bright and determined to learn, attending a local ‘ghor master’ (teacher at home) system called ‘jaygiri’.

Displaying remarkable intellect, Abdul Awwal passed the matriculation examination in the first division from Noakhali district, which was then under the Calcutta Board, achieving letter marks in mathematics and causing a sensation in his village and district. Driven by a desire for further advancement despite being orphaned and the backdrop of World War II, he went to Calcutta and successfully passed the test for trainee engineers at the British government’s Ordinance Factory Maintenance construction Divisions. He was selected among 100 candidates in an All-India competition and got the opportunity to study for a one-year diploma in Mechanical Engineering at Liverpool Polytechnic in Britain.

In England, he adapted well to a new culture and even found a supportive English host family. His time in England brought him into contact with Rabindranath Tagore’s works, particularly Gitanjali, which deeply resonated with him. He regularly read religious books and Gitanjali. After completing his diploma, he returned to his homeland and began his career with the British Railway in Kharagpur.

Abdul Awwal had a profound love for music, especially Indian classical music and the songs of Rabindranath Tagore. This passion was shared by his wife, Firoza, whom he married in 1945. They raised five children, all of whom learned music. His appreciation for music was a constant source of joy and solace throughout his life.

Despite his achievements, Abdul Awwal remained a humble and private person, rarely speaking of his struggles. He maintained a connection with his village until his last days. He passed away on February 21, 1992, a quiet and self-reliant man who had worked tirelessly for his family’s well-being without seeking recognition.

In memory of Abdul Awwal, the SpaandanB Abdul Awwal Smriti Britti (memorial scholarship) was established in 2021 to provide scholarships to disadvantaged and meritorious students in rural Bangladesh, specifically in Amirabad, Sonagazi, Feni, where he was born. This initiative aims to support talented students who face financial difficulties in continuing their education, reflecting Abdul Awwal’s own early struggles and his value for learning. The scholarship program aligns with SpaandanB’s mission to support education for underprivileged children.