Poet Mohon Raihan’s 70th birthday was celebrated with a programme highlighting his life and work, featuring a documentary screening, book launches, a dance drama, music and recitation.
The ‘Mohon Raihan 70 Years Celebration Committee’ organised the event at the main auditorium of the Bangladesh National Museum on Saturday evening.
Chief Whip of the ruling party in parliament Nurul Islam Moni inaugurated the programme. Writer and researcher Dr Salimullah Khan, convener of the celebration committee, chaired the event. Law Minister Asaduzzaman Asad, poet Matin Bairagi, journalist Abu Saeed Khan and Saiful Haque, general secretary of the Revolutionary Workers Party, attended as special guests, among others.
At the opening, Nurul Islam Moni wished the poet a long life.
“I wish poet Mohon Raihan a long life. The country needs poets like him. I hope he continues to write poetry and contribute to the country’s literary scene,” he said.
Dr Salimullah Khan said Raihan’s life remains closely connected to the history of Bangladesh’s literature and culture.
“One of the key aims of this programme is to assess his creative work and struggles and introduce his ideals and literary contributions to a new generation,” he said.
Saiful Haque said poets make the world more liveable and praised Raihan for his continued contribution to society.
The programme opened with music performed by a group of young singers. Organisers then screened Agnipother Kobi, a documentary on Mohon Raihan’s life and work.
The organisers also unveiled the covers of a commemorative book and Selected 100 Poems during the event.
The programme concluded with a dance drama, music and poetry recitations following the discussion session.
