Rebel poet Nazrul's 127th birth anniversary today
The nation commemorated Kazi Nazrul Islam’s 127th birth anniversary with floral tributes, cultural programmes, and a mass recitation of his iconic poem ‘Bidrohi’, honouring the Rebel Poet’s enduring legacy of justice and rebellion
ATT Desk Report
Bangladesh remembers Kazi Nazrul Islam, the ‘Rebel Poet’ of Bengal, with due respect on his 127th birth anniversary today (Sunday). The day witnesses a series of cultural and political programmes on ‘Nazrul Jayanti’.
The celebrations began at dawn with artists placing wreaths at the mazar (shrine) of the poet on the campus of Dhaka University. Academics, cultural activists and common admirers gathered to offer floral tributes and recite his fiery verses. Special prayers were held for his departed soul.
Prime Minister Tarique Rahman on Saturday inaugurated the state-level celebration programme marking the birth anniversary of the poet of love, rebel, euality and humanity at Trishal, Mymensingh.
Ministry of Cultural Affairs provided support for the successful arrangement of the five-day programme and called on all quarters to work together for the betterment of the cultural arena of Bangladesh.
State-run Bangladesh Betar and Bangladesh Television aired special documentaries and song sessions focusing on Nazrul’s rich repertoire of ghazals, devotional songs, and revolutionary poetry. Leading cultural organisations, including Chhayanaut and Nazrul Institute, organised day-long programmes featuring recitations, group songs, and dance performances based on his works.
Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy launched a three-day event on Friday at its National Theatre Hall.
In a commemorative speech, Cultural Affairs Minister highlighted Nazrul’s timeless appeal, stating that his call for equality and rebellion against oppression remains relevant today. “He is not just a poet of the past; he is the voice of every struggle for justice,” the minister said.
Born on May 24, 1899, in Churulia, West Bengal, India, Nazrul was proclaimed the National Poet of Bangladesh. Despite losing his voice later in life, his legacy as a composer of over 4,000 songs and numerous poems continues to resonate. The day’s events concluded with a mass rendition of his iconic poem ‘Bidrohi’ at Rabindra Sarobar, reaffirming the nation’s enduring love for its ‘Rebel Poet’.
In January 1976, the Bangladesh government granted him citizenship of Bangladesh and on February 21 awarded him the Ekushey Padak.
