A three-day national celebration marking the 127th birth anniversary of Bangladesh’s National Poet Kazi Nazrul Islam, organised by Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy at the National Theatre Hall in Dhaka on Friday began on Friday.
The programme, which will continue until May 24, features music, dance recitals, poetry recitation and discussions inspired by the timeless works of the Rebel Poet.
Speaking as the chief guest at the inauguration ceremony, Information and Broadcasting minister Zahir Uddin Swapon said Nazrul’s poetry and songs continue to shape the moral and emotional foundations of generations.
“Those who grow up reading Nazrul develop patriotism, humanity, love for nature and a spirit of sacrifice,” he said.
He also expressed support for declaring Nazrul’s birth anniversary as a “National Harmony Day,” saying the poet’s ideals reflected peaceful coexistence among people of all religions in Bangladesh.
Special guest Ambassador Mushfiqul Fazal Ansarey, chief discussant journalist-poet Hasan Hafiz and Nazrul researcher Dr Engineer Khalequzzaman highlighted the poet’s enduring relevance in struggles against oppression, communalism and religious extremism.
They stressed the need to preserve and globally promote Nazrul’s vast literary and musical legacy, noting that many of his songs remain scattered and unarchived.
Presiding over the event, Director General of Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy and poet Sheikh Rezauddin Ahmed, popularly known as Rezauddin Stalin, said Nazrul’s spirit remains deeply embedded across Bangladesh through institutions, organisations and educational establishments named after him.
“As long as Bangladesh exists, its people will carry Nazrul’s ideals and build an inclusive society inspired by his vision,” he said.
The cultural segment opened with a group dance performance titled “Srishti Sukher Ullase” featuring 50 dancers under the direction of Arohi Islam.
Students of the Music Department of University of Dhaka performed the Nazrul song “Eki Oporup Rupe Ma Tomar” in chorus, while renowned artistes including Yasmin Mushtari, Yusuf Ahmed Khan, Fatema Tuz Zohra, Ulka Hossain and Bijon Chandra Mistry presented solo performances.
Dance troupe Nrityalok staged “Kamal Pasha,” while recitations of Nazrul’s poems were presented by artistes including Shakila Matin Mridula, Kamrunnahar and Tito Munshi.
The final performance of the evening featured the dance drama “Jago Nari” by Bhongima Dance Theatre under the direction of Syeda Sayla Ahmed Lima.
The second day’s programme will begin at 5:30 pm on May 23 at the National Theatre Hall, featuring discussions and performances based on Nazrul’s songs, poetry and philosophy.
Similar events are also being held at district Shilpakala academies across the country. All programmes are open to the public and are being streamed live on the verified Facebook page and YouTube channel of Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy.