The first “Nazrul Rock Concert 2025” took place last evening, marking the launch of a new album by the Nazrul Institute. As part of this initiative, the institute has released 10 songs of rebellion and awakening by National Poet Kazi Nazrul Islam, reimagined and performed by 10 different Bangladeshi bands.
To commemorate the 126th birth anniversary of Kazi Nazrul Islam, the National Poet of Bangladesh, the cultural platform Gems of Nazrul hosted a musical tribute titled “Ontorey Tumi Acho Chirodin” this evening. The event brought together prominent Nazrul exponents and emerging voices to celebrate the poet’s diverse musical repertoire and reflect on his unparalleled contributions to Bengali music.
Departing from the usual commemorative fare of patriotic or devotional pieces, the concert spotlighted Nazrul’s lesser-explored work in the thumri genre, revealing his artistic range as a composer unafraid to traverse genres and expand musical language. Both celebrated vocalists and promising young talents took the stage, honouring the legacy while pushing it forward.
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.
Creative blocks mirror nature’s barren phases, yet chaos and stillness birth inspiration. True creativity resists control, flowing from instinct and emotion. In its wild, sacred moments, we connect deeply—with self, soul, and the art of becoming.
The mind craves to fly far away. / In the guise of a beggar, eyes wet with tears
In tribute to National Poet Kazi Nazrul Islam’s birth anniversary, a new album titled “The Nazrul Tapes—Reflected by Jahid Nirob” reimagines four of his classic songs. Musician Jahid Nirob has infused the timeless compositions with modern arrangements, blending electronic elements to reinterpret Nazrul’s works through a contemporary lens.
Notable Indian artistes participating in this event include Shreeradha Bandyopadhyay, Manomay Bhattacharya, Pandit Tushar Dutta, Brajeswar Mukherjee, and Payel Kar. Among the distinguished Bangladeshi artistes lending their voices to this initiative are Yakub Ali Khan, Khairul Anam Shakil, Ferdous Ara, Nashid Kamal, and Yasmin Mushtari.
The album is being produced under the supervision of the Kabi Nazrul Institute. According to Latiful Islam Shibli, the institute's executive director and a renowned writer and lyricist, the album will feature performances by 20 leading bands from the country and is expected to be released within the next six months.
"During his lifetime, Kazi Nazrul Islam expressed grief over the modification of his music to modern tunes, in his own words," addressed renowned Nazrul Sangeet exponent Khairul Anam Shakil, who is the Chairman of Nazrul Institute and General Secretary of Bangladesh Nazrul Sangeet Sangstha.
‘It’s been two years today, a full two years, and it continues to amaze me that people run for their lives the moment they see me.
I proposed a panel at a North American Bangla literary conference. ‘Is translation itself a form of activism?’ I queried.
Gems of Nazrul’s primary objective is to raise more awareness among the younger generation about Nazrul's ideology, philosophy, and artistic masterpieces.
I sing the song of equality– Of a country where fresh joy blossoms in every heart
Kazi Nazrul Islam (1899-1976), was a poet, novelist, lyricist and musician in Bengali, and was popularly known as the rebel poet.
Kazi Nazrul Islam’s work remains just as relevant and beautiful 123 years after his birth.
Today marks the 125th birth anniversary of our National Poet, Kazi Nazrul Islam. His philosophy of life vastly reflects upon his works.
Like a wounded bird, my songs/ tumble down at your feet, my love.
I wonder at how these frugal, accessible pleasures define her daily existence and get elated with the fact that reading takes up a significant space on the shelf
