Land Minister Mizanur Rahman Minu on Saturday described National Poet Kazi Nazrul Islam as a unique architect of the Muslim renaissance, saying his literary and cultural legacy continued to inspire people across borders.
He made the remarks while inaugurating the newly built ‘Nazrul Village’ opposite the Rajshahi Central Botanical Garden and Zoo by unveiling a plaque.
The project was undertaken by the Rajshahi district administration as part of programmes marking ‘Nazrul Year’ in memory of the national poet.
Minu said the establishment of Nazrul Village would create new opportunities for researchers and strengthen cultural activities in Rajshahi.
He said Nazrul’s marching song ‘Chol Chol Chol’ was performed in around 11 countries, including Bangladesh, India, Pakistan, Nepal, Bhutan, Afghanistan and Iran.
The minister also said Prime Minister Tarique Rahman would be invited to formally inaugurate Nazrul Village once the remaining work was completed.
Deputy Commissioner Kazi Shahidul Islam presided over the programme, attended by senior government officials, political leaders, civil society representatives and cultural personalities.
Minu later planted a krishnachura sapling on the premises.
Officials said around Tk25 lakh had initially been collected from different sources for the project, with Tk10 lakh to Tk12 lakh allocated for constructing the ‘Nazrul Mancha’.
No multi-storey building will be constructed at the site, which will remain open to the public.
The venue will allow individuals, organisations and cultural groups to practise Nazrul’s plays, folk theatre, songs and other forms of literature.
A ‘Nazrul Calendar’ has also been prepared to organise programmes throughout the year. Work on the Nazrul Mancha is being expedited so that events scheduled for next month can be held at the venue.
The initiative aims to introduce Nazrul’s literature, poetry and music to the younger generation, with the Nazrul Mancha and Nazrul Corner serving as its main cultural hubs.
