Photo: Ministry

DHAKA, June 15, 2026 (BSS) - A high-level preparatory meeting of the National Committee was held today at the Ministry of Cultural Affairs to review preparations for the year-long nationwide and international observance of "Nazrul Year".

The meeting was chaired by Cultural Affairs Minister Nitai Roy Chowdhury at the ministry's conference room.

Tk 2.71 crore has already been allocated for the programme, including Tk 250,000 for each of the country's 64 districts through district administrations and Tk 150,000 for each of 74 remote upazilas.

The meeting also reviewed preparations for a three-day inaugural programme scheduled to be held nationwide from June 18 to June 20, 2026.

Speaking at the meeting, the minister said that in the past there had been attempts to marginalise and erase the memory of poet Kazi Nazrul Islam, but a new cultural awakening has revived his legacy.

He said Nazrul remains a powerful source of inspiration in resisting injustice in the present era.

Participants discussed plans to produce high-quality documentaries and films for international streaming platforms such as Amazon and Netflix to promote "Nazrul Year" globally.

They also proposed branding Bangladesh internationally as the "Land of Nazrul" and strengthening cultural diplomacy through the Cultural Diplomacy Wing of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, along with special programmes at all Bangladeshi missions abroad.

The meeting further suggested preparing an international-standard booklet for foreign diplomats, promoting Nazrul's connection with Turkiye through his literary references, and translating his works into major world languages.

Other proposals included a large-scale "Nazrul Fair" in July, an international conference of Nazrul researchers, and nationwide competitions on the poet's life and works.

To engage the youth, a nationwide "Nazrul Talent Hunt" and digital content competitions were proposed.

Month-wise programmes were also discussed, including special broadcasts by Bangladesh Television, university-based programmes on Nazrul's role in women's emancipation, a major patriotic Nazrul music event in December, and special observances of his Hamd and Naat during Ramadan.

State Minister for Cultural Affairs Ali Newaz Mahmood Khaiyam, Ministry Secretary Kaniz Mowla, senior officials, and representatives from Bangla Academy, Nazrul Institute and Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy attended the meeting.