Bangladesh Nazrul Sena organised a comprehensive day-long programme in Mymensingh on Monday to celebrate the 127th birth anniversary of National Poet Kazi Nazrul Islam.
The festivities included a discussion meeting, cultural performances, a colourful procession, and a prize distribution ceremony.
Syed Emran Saleh Prince attended the event as the chief guest. In his address, he described the National Poet as a pre-eminent symbol of humanity, equality, and non-communalism, as well as a cornerstone of Bengali literature and culture.
He noted that under the leadership of Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, the current government has initiated significant measures to develop national culture and introduce Nazrul’s legacy more broadly to the younger generation.
Prince highlighted the Prime Minister’s recent announcement regarding the establishment of ‘Nazrul City’ and the initiative to observe ‘Nazrul Year’, asserting that these steps will play a vital role in the country’s cultural awakening.
He expressed his optimism that Trishal would be transformed into an international centre for the study and practice of Nazrul’s memory, literature, and culture.
Speaking amidst heavy rainfall, the chief guest remarked that nature itself appeared to be remembering the Rebel Poet on this monsoon day.
Quoting verses from Nazrul’s monsoon poetry, he stated that the poet’s literature awakens the spirit of humanity, love, and protest within the human heart.
He further commended Bangladesh Nazrul Sena for its pioneering role in cultivating and spreading the ideals, music, and culture of the National Poet.
The discussion was presided over by Mizanur Rahman Khan Liton, President of Bangladesh Nazrul Sena.
Other notable speakers included the organisation’s Vice-President Sultan Uddin Ahmed; Professor Dr Md Shahabuddin of the Bengali Language and Literature Department at Jatiya Kabi Kazi Nazrul Islam University; Professor Aziz Ahmed Sadeq Reza; Professor Delowar Hossain; and Alamgir Ahmed.
Earlier in the morning, a colourful procession was brought out in Mymensingh city to mark the occasion. The procession was inaugurated by Roknuzzaman Sarker, Administrator of Mymensingh City Corporation, following his placement of a floral wreath at the portrait of the National Poet.
The day’s diverse schedule also featured poetry recitations, Nazrul Sangeet performances, and the presentation of awards to distinguished individuals for their contributions to various fields.
