Marking the memorable occasion of folk poet Abdul Hai Mashreki's 100th birth anniversary, Jagannath University organised a discussion session and cultural programme yesterday at their campus.

Dr Mijanur Rahman, Vice Chancellor, JnU, Professor Dr Salim Bhuiyan, Treasurer, JnU, spoke at the programme. “I would say that one would be hard-pressed to find a poet of his calibre, and that too, someone who contributed as much to our culture and literature as he did,” said Dr Rahman.

Poet Syed Hasmat Jalal and singer Shankar Shaujal were also present at the programme as honourable guests.

In association with the Abdul Hai Mashreki Research Center, the university has scholarships for staff members who wish to pursue M Phil degrees on the life and work of the eminent poet.

Students of the university also arranged poetry recitations, music, dance and theatrical performances as a part of the programme.