
He died in his sleep while staying at Karamjal Tourist Centre in the Sundarbans, said his family.
University sources said Professor Ataur Rahman had been at the centre to attend a workshop organised by the Faculty of Arts of Dhaka University.
He is survived by his wife, a son, a daughter, relatives, and a large number of students and well-wishers.
Dhaka University Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr. Niaz Ahmed Khan expressed deep sorrow over the death.
In a condolence message, he said Professor Ataur Rahman made remarkable contributions to education and research and played key roles in academic and administrative initiatives including addressing several recent crises faced by the university.
The Vice-Chancellor prayed for the eternal peace of the departed soul and conveyed his heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family, reports UNB.