Celebrating the Rebel Bard: A Nationwide tribute to Kazi Nazrul Islam

Today marks the 126th birth anniversary of Kazi Nazrul Islam, the national poet of Bangladesh. A powerful force in Bengali literature and culture, Nazrul's fiery words, revolutionary spirit, and undying call for equality continue to resonate in the hearts of millions. In honour of his life and legacy, a vibrant array of nationwide events and television programmes has been organised, celebrating Nazrul's timeless contribution.

The Ministry of Cultural Affairs, in collaboration with the Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy and local authorities, is hosting a three-day cultural event in Cumilla from May 25 to 27. This year's theme, "Chobbisher Gonobhyutthan: Kazi Nazruler Uttorodhikar" (The People's Uprising of '24: Nazrul's Legacy), emphasises the poet's enduring impact on Bangladesh's spirit of resistance and cultural awakening.

The opening ceremony at the Cumilla District Shilpakala Academy will be graced by prominent personalities, including Mostofa Sarwar Farooki, adviser to the Ministry of Cultural Affairs, and Md Mofidur Rahman, secretary to the Ministry. Special addresses will be delivered by Latiful Islam Shibli, executive director of the Kazi Nazrul Islam Institute, and Khilkhil Kazi, chairperson of the Institute's Trustee Board.

The highlight of the event includes the presentation of the Nazrul Award for 2023 and 2024, honouring individuals who have significantly contributed to the promotion and preservation of Nazrul's work and philosophy.

The stage will come alive with powerful renditions of Nazrul Sangeet, dramatic recitations, and dance performances by renowned artistes such as Ferdous Ara, Fatema Tuz Zohra, Shahinur Abedin, and Salauddin Ahmed, accompanied by the dynamic choreography of the Bangladesh Academy of Fine Arts and Shilpakala's own dance troupes.

Genesis Theatre will present the thought-provoking play "Damal Chele Nazrul" in Teota, Manikganj, the birthplace of Nazrul's wife, Promila Devi. This play portrays inspirational episodes from the poet's early life and his struggle for justice.

Simultaneously, at the Bangla Academy, Genesis Theatre's children and youth troupe will stage the musical drama "Dekhbo Ebar Jagottake". Created to bring Nazrul's messages of free thought and universal humanism to the next generation, the performance forms a key part of the daylong celebrations.

Additionally, "Damal Chele Nazrul" will be staged again on June 1 at the Nazrul Institute (Kobi Bhaban) in Dhaka.

A special musical programme titled "Thumrir Jalsa" was held yesterday at 6:30pm at the Chhayanaut Cultural Centre Auditorium, organised by the Bangladesh Nazrul Sangeet Sangstha.

Bangladesh Television (BTV) has curated an expansive day of special programming to honour Nazrul's legacy: 9:00am– "Duronto Nazrul": A children's special featuring young performers from the Shishu Academy with songs, dances, poetry, and a play titled "Kanamachi". At 4:05pm – Documentary: A visual exploration of places associated with Nazrul's life and legacy.

At 5:00pm onwards – Music and Dance Special: A performance session inspired by Nazrul's poems and songs. At 6:00pm – Discussion Segment: A panel delving into Nazrul's life, ideology, and enduring relevance. At 8:50pm – "Ganer Mala": A star-studded musical showcase hosted by Ferdous Ara, featuring Fatema Tuz Zohra, Yakub Ali Khan, Salauddin Ahmed, Yasmin Mushtari, and others. At 10:00pm – "Sabyasachi Nazrul": A rich multimedia performance hosted by Priyanka Gope, weaving together Nazrul's music, poetry, and dance.

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Duronto TV joins the national celebration with two special presentations at 9:30am "Unnata Mama Shir": A dance programme choreographed by Amit Chowdhury, performed by Sadhona's dancers, including Rudmila Priyonti Chowdhury, Arisha Chowdhury, Noholi Islam Riya, Labannya Das Gupta, and others.

This performance unites the themes of rebellion, love, and equality, drawing from Nazrul's iconic works such as "Bidrohi", "Nari", "Mora Jhonjar Moto Uddam", and "Rumjhum Rumjhum". At 11:00am and 7:30pm - "Golper Jhuri": A television play based on Nazrul's short stories "Shikari" and "Planchet", directed by Nahid Ahmed Pial. The cast includes talented child actors Aporupa, Jahin, Ratul, Protyusha, and senior performers Shahiduzzaman Selim and Rahmat Ali.