The University of Dhaka on Thursday observed the 50th death anniversary of National Poet Kazi Nazrul Islam with solemn reverence through commemorative discussions, musical performances and prayers on the campus.

The day’s programme began early in the morning with a Quran Khani at the DU Central Mosque after Fazr prayers, seeking eternal peace for the departed soul of the poet.

Later, DU Vice Chancellor Obaidul Islam led a procession of teachers, students, officers and staff to the poet’s mausoleum, where they placed wreaths and offered Fateha.

A commemorative discussion was subsequently held at the open stage near the mausoleum, with the Vice Chancellor in the chair.

Addressing the discussion, VC Obaidul Islam paid tribute to the National Poet, saying Nazrul’s literature remains an enduring source of inspiration against injustice, inequality and social oppression.

“Nazrul teaches us the paramount importance of maintaining unity through equality, harmony and peace,” he said.

The Vice Chancellor thanked Prime Minister Tarique Rahman for declaring the current year as the ‘Nazrul Year’, saying the initiative would help promote the poet’s philosophy and works throughout the year instead of limiting commemorations to specific days.

He also called for expanding academic research through the DU Nazrul Research Centre and urged authorities to preserve historical sites associated with the poet in Trishal, Cumilla and Barishal.

The poet’s granddaughter, Khilkhil Kazi, attended the discussion as a special guest and shared personal memories of growing up alongside her grandfather.

Reciting the poet’s famous lines, “Mora eki brinte duti kusum Hindu-Musalman…”, she urged the education authorities to include Nazrul’s life and works in the national curriculum.

She said this would help inspire younger generations with patriotism and moral courage and counter religious bigotry and hatred in the country.

As part of the observance, faculty members and students of the DU Music Department performed Nazrul Geeti.

DU Proctors, hall provosts, the acting registrar, senior faculty members and students attended the event.