Cultural figures call for greater presence of Nazrul’s works in everyday life

Researchers, artistes, writers and recitation artistes devoted to the works of Bangladesh's National Poet Kazi Nazrul Islam have called for a stronger presence of his songs and literary creations in everyday public life.

The discussions were presented on Sunday at a convention and exchange meeting organised by the Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy at the National Art Gallery Auditorium in Segunbagicha, Dhaka.

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Held under the patronage of the Ministry of Cultural Affairs, the event aimed to ensure that the observance of "Nazrul Year 2026–2027" is meaningful, effective and people-oriented.

Participants proposed incorporating Nazrul's writings and songs into textbooks from primary to higher education levels. They also suggested promoting his works across public transport networks, including buses, trains and aircraft, as well as at public gathering spaces throughout the country.

The day-long convention brought together nearly 400 vocalists, dancers, recitation artistes and Nazrul researchers from across Bangladesh.

During an open discussion session, participants shared their views on preserving and promoting the poet's works and philosophy. Among those who spoke were Professor Nashid Kamal, Yakub Ali Khan, Gazi Abdul Hakim, Seema Islam, Lubna Marium, Khairul Anam Shakil, Sadya Afreen Mallick, A F M Hayatullah, Saju Ahmed, Fatema Tuz Zohra, Sujit Mustafa, Ferdous Ara, Professor Priyanka Gope, Mahmudul Hasan, Kalpana Anam and several others.

Speakers stressed that the celebration of Nazrul's legacy should not be limited to dance, music and poetry. They proposed the inclusion of instrumental music performances, international seminars and workshops to introduce the poet's philosophy to a wider global audience.

They also called for talent hunts at district and divisional levels to identify emerging Nazrul performers and researchers, the establishment of Nazrul Cultural Centres abroad, the construction of monuments and a Nazrul museum in public spaces, and the wider dissemination of the poet's works through digital platforms.

Cultural Affairs Minister Nitai Roy Chowdhury said the writings and songs of the National Poet should be more prominently incorporated into school curricula from the primary level onwards.

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State Minister for Cultural Affairs Ali Newaz Mahmud Khayem, Director General of Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy poet Sheikh Rezauddin Ahmed (Rezauddin Stalin), and convenor of the Jatiyatabadi Samajik O Sangskritik Sangstha (JASAS), Helal Khan, also addressed the gathering.