Chief Whip Md Nurul Islam on Saturday said the poetry of Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore has long served as a source of inspiration for the people of Bangladesh, including during their struggle against autocracy.
Speaking at a programme marking the 165th birth anniversary of Tagore at the National Theatre Hall of Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy in the capital, he said people of the country fought for 17 years, drawing strength from the poet’s words and ideals.
“The people of Bangladesh loved the hard truth and endured a long struggle. That struggle did not betray them; rather, it brought them a new dawn,” he said, quoting Tagore’s famous line: “Truth is hard, but I have loved the hard, and it never deceives.”
The four-day event has been organised by Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy with support from the Ministry of Cultural Affairs.
Nurul Islam said Tagore’s writings remain deeply relevant to Bangladesh’s national life and social movements.
Referring to Tagore’s poem “Ore Nobin, Ore Amar Kancha”, he said the poet always believed in the power of youth to break social stagnation and lead society forward.
“During our Liberation War too, Tagore’s poems and songs inspired our people,” he added.
The Chief Whip described Tagore as a versatile literary figure who enriched Bengali literature, music and culture through poetry, songs, novels and acting.
He said Rabindra Sangeet carries a unique appeal that remains closely linked to the growth of Bengali language, culture and education.
Calling on the younger generation to read Tagore’s works, he urged them to contribute to building a culturally enriched and progressive Bangladesh.
He also expressed concern over the growing influence of “distorted and foreign cultures” and stressed the need to create a society free from drugs, evil forces and autocracy.
At the beginning of the programme, the Chief Whip was presented with a commemorative crest and honoured with a traditional shawl.
Among others, Director General of Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy Rezauddin Stalin, officials of the Ministry of Cultural Affairs and media personnel were present at the event.