Bangladesh prepares for Rabindranath, Nazrul birth anniversaries

The Ministry of Cultural Affairs has begun preparations to mark the birth anniversaries of two of Bengal’s most influential literary figures—Rabindranath Tagore and Kazi Nazrul Islam—through nationwide programmes, including major events in Kushtia and Mymensingh.

Rabindranath Tagore’s 165th birth anniversary and Kazi Nazrul Islam’s 127th birth anniversary will be observed with national-level celebrations, according to a preparatory meeting held on Sunday at the Secretariat.

Under the programme, cultural events, Rabindra fairs and discussions will be organised on May 8 in Shahjadpur (Sirajganj), Patishar (Naogaon), and Dakshindihi and Pithabhog in Khulna, with support from local administrations.

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A memorial publication of 1,000 copies and 10,000 posters will be printed for the Rabindra anniversary. An exhibition of Tagore’s artworks will also be held at the Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy in Dhaka.

Separate arrangements have been made for the Nazrul anniversary, with the main national programme scheduled for May 25 in Trishal, Mymensingh.

The event is expected to be attended by Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, according to the plan outlined at the meeting.

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Local-level Nazrul fairs and discussions will also be held in Daulatpur (Cumilla), Teota (Manikganj), Karpasdanga (Chuadanga) and Chattogram. The Nazrul Institute and the Department of Public Libraries will organise exhibitions of books and photographs to highlight the poet’s life and works for younger audiences.

Educational institutions across the country will host discussions, essay competitions and recitation programmes to mark both anniversaries. The events will be broadcast live on Bangladesh Television, Bangladesh Betar and private media outlets. Bangladesh missions abroad will also observe the occasions.

The Ministry of Home Affairs and law enforcement agencies will coordinate security arrangements for all national and local programmes.