State Minister for Cultural Affairs Ali Newaz Mahmud Khayyam addressed a departmental-level exchange meeting in Chattogram commemorating Nazrul Barsho as the chief guest. Photo: BSS

CHATTOGRAM, August 16, 2026 (BSS) - State Minister for Cultural Affairs Ali Newaz Mahmud Khayyam has said that Kazi Nazrul Islam is recognized as the national poet of Bangladesh and his contributions to Bengali culture, including literature, music, and drama, are significant.

“For various reasons, many of Nazrul’s extensive works have not been properly presented to the public. The principal aim of Nazrul Barsho is to introduce his works to the younger generations and, through this initiative,  a healthy, prosperous, and strong cultural environment will be cultivated,” said the minister. 

 Culture fosters the psychological development of individuals, he said, adding, “With this ethos in mind, it is essential to establish a knowledge-based, humane, and healthy society by engaging the younger generations in cultural activities." 

He made these remarks while addressing as the chief guest a departmental-level exchange meeting commemorating Nazrul Barsho, which took place today at the Chattogram Circuit House conference room. 

Ali Newaz Mahmud Khayyam emphasized that to disseminate the works of Kazi Nazrul Islam among all segments of the society and to enhance Nazrul’s practice and cultural awareness among the youth, cultural competitions should be effectively organized with the participation of students from primary, technical, and secondary schools across the country during 'Nazrul Barsho.

On May 23, Prime Minister Tarique Rahman declared ‘Nazrul Barsho' from May 25, 2026, to May 25, 2027, during an event held to celebrate Kazi Nazrul Islam's birthday in Trishal, Mymensingh. 

In line with the Prime Minister’s announcement, activities will officially start on August 31. In the first phase of the educational institution-based programme, competitions in four subjects - music, poetry, drama and dance - will be held with students from primary, technical and secondary levels. 

He said that the programme will be formally inaugurated on August 31 through rallies and cultural programmes in the district towns.  

Divisional Commissioner Dr. Md. Ziauddin presided over the function while Dr. Sukomal Barua, Ekushey Padak and Swadhinata Padak recipient,  Abu Sufian MP, Deputy Commissioner Mohammad Zahidul Islam Miah, Chattogram Range DIG Abdul Kuddus Chowdhury, CMP Commissioner Hasan Md. Shawkat Ali, among others, were present as special guests. 

Earlier, the State Minister for Culture visited the Chattogram Zia Memorial Museum.