National poet Nazrul’s 121st birth anniversary celebrated

The 121st birth anniversary of national poet Kazi Nazrul Islam was observed in the country on Monday, reports UNB.

But unlike previous years, there was no public function this year because of the coronavirus outbreak. The day also coincided with Eid-ul-Fitr, the biggest festival of the Muslims.

Born on 25 May, 1899 at Churulia village in Burdwan district of West Bengal in India, Nazrul had inspired people to fight against injustice and repression of the colonial rule through his writings.

Bangladesh Television and Bangladesh Betar aired various programmes on the occasion.

President Abdul Hamid and prime minister Sheikh Hasina issued separate messages highlighting the colourful life of the poet and his contributions to Bangla language and literature.

In his message, the president said, “Nazrul’s write-ups inspired us to join all democratic movements and battles, including the anti-British movement, the Language Movement, the mass uprising in 1969, and the Liberation War.”

He expressed his belief that the immortal presence of Nazrul will keep the Bengali nation alive forever.

In her message, the prime minister said, “We must continue to work together to build a secular, non-discriminatory, peaceful, happy and prosperous Bangladesh following the lifestyle of the Rebel Poet.”