Photo : BSS

DHAKA, Nov 9, 2025 (BSS) – A two-day international conference on the philosophy of renaissance in the thoughts of Allama Iqbal and Kazi Nazrul Islam began at the Nabab Nawab Ali Chowdhury Senate Bhaban of Dhaka University (DU) this morning.

Dhaka University Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr Niaz Ahmad Khan attended the inaugural session as the chief guest.
Dean of the Faculty of Arts Professor Dr Mohammad Siddiqur Rahman Khan, Director General of the Bangladesh Institute of Islamic Thought Dr M Abul Aziz, and Editor of Dainik Amar Desh Mahmudur Rahman spoke at the function as special guests, while Chairman of the DU Urdu Department M Golam Mawla presided over the session.

Professor Dr Mahmudul Hasan of the International Islamic University Malaysia (IIUM) and Professor Dr Khaja M Ekramuddin of Jawaharlal Nehru University, India, presented the keynote papers.

The inaugural session began with the national anthem. After the recitation from the Holy Quran, a one-minute silence was observed in memory of the martyrs of the War of Independence in 1971 and the July Uprising of 2024.

Representatives from 18 countries are participating in the conference, where 133 papers are being presented in 18 sessions.

“The university develops mainly through merit, innovation, and a joint network of knowledge practices,” said DU Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr Niaz Ahmad Khan, adding that this international conference has further enriched the scope of knowledge exchange.

“This is not only an academic discussion but also a rare celebration of networking and humanitarian values,” he said, noting that the event also strengthened mutual bonding and cooperation among scholars.

“We are remembering the lives and philosophies of two great thinkers – Allama Iqbal and Kazi Nazrul Islam. Their thoughts and works have profoundly influenced our society, literature, and humanitarian spirit,” he added.

Referring to the July Uprising, the VC said it has left a lasting imprint on the social and political history of Bangladesh.