Photo : BSS

RANGPUR, Aug 29, 2026 (BSS) - Prominent literary and socio-cultural figures at a discussion here have called for following the ideals and inspiration of National Poet Kazi Nazrul Islam to promote the welfare of the nation and humanity.

They made the call at a special programme organized by Rangpur Sahitya-Sanskriti Parishad (RSSP) at its Town Hall office on Friday night to mark the 50th death anniversary of the poet.

The programme featured recitations of Nazrul's poems, self-composed poems dedicated to the poet, Nazrul songs and cultural performances.

RSSP Vice-President Sunil Kumar presided over the programme, moderated by its General Secretary Mamun-ur-Rashid.

Poet, writer and researcher Dr Shah Sultan Talukder presented a paper titled "The Role of Nazrul's Literature in Creating Muslim Thought".

Eminent writer, Bengali language and Nazrul researcher and former head of the Bengali Department at Rangpur Begum Rokeya Government College Professor Mohammad Shah Alam took part in the discussion on the paper.

Writer and cultural personality Dr Mofizul Islam Maantu, RSSP Adviser Advocate Masum Hasan, writer Abdur Razzaque and RSSP Executive Member SM Amjad Hossain Sarkar also discussed different aspects of Nazrul's life and works.

Poets Professor Atahar Ali Khan, Niresh Chandra Mukherjee and Musaddika Sarkar Manita recited several of Nazrul's poems, including 'Faryad', 'Manush', 'Coolie Mazur', 'Badal Raater Pakhi', 'Abhishap' and 'Kandari Hushiar'.

RSSP poets, writers, artists and socio-cultural activists also performed Nazrul Sangeet.

The speakers described Nazrul as a major source of inspiration in the nation's struggles and stressed the need for greater recognition of his contributions. They also called for wider inclusion of his literary works in school, college and university curricula.

Professor Shah Alam urged proper evaluation of Nazrul's achievements, ideals and philosophy of humanity and called for increased academic research on his works.

"People should properly follow the ideals and inspiration of this rebellious poet to build an enlightened society based on universal humanism, justice, equality and non-communalism, as envisioned by the National Poet," he said.