Photo: BSS

RAJSHAHI, Aug 31, 2026 (BSS) - Rajshahi divisional commissioner Yusuf Ali has called on the younger generation to embrace the ideals of National Poet Kazi Nazrul Islam and take part in cultural and sports activities to help build an educated, crime-free and harmonious society.

"There is an inverse relationship between cultural and sports activities and criminal tendencies in society," he said, adding that increased participation in such activities could help reduce social problems including juvenile delinquency, drug addiction, gambling and child marriage.

He made the remarks as the chief guest at the inauguration of a nationwide Nazrul-themed national cultural competition for students at educational institutions, organised as part of the Nazrul Year. The event was held at the open stage of Bangladesh Shishu Academy in Rajshahi city on Monday morning.

The district administration organised the programme on the initiative of the Ministry of Cultural Affairs, with cooperation from the District Shilpakala Academy.

Highlighting Nazrul's life and literary philosophy, Yusuf Ali said the poet's works were not merely a source of entertainment but also inspired people to fight for their rights and awaken their conscience.

He said Nazrul's difficult childhood, including his experience working at a bread shop, helped shape his rebellious spirit. Throughout his life, the poet used his writings to speak against inequality, religious intolerance and exploitation.

"What ordinary people could not say courageously, Nazrul spoke with great courage. For this, he had to endure imprisonment," the divisional commissioner said.

He urged young people to develop humane qualities by following his ideals.

Yusuf Ali expressed his determination to build an educated, crime-free and harmonious society by promoting Nazrul's ideals and ensuring the participation of people from all communities, including the Santal community of the Barendra region.

He formally declared the Nazrul Year programme open at the end of his speech.

Deputy Commissioner Kazi Shahidul Islam chaired the event.

RMP Commissioner Mohammad Faizul Kabir, Additional DIG of Rajshahi Range Khandaker Shamim Hossain, Joint Secretary of the Ministry of Cultural Affairs Harun-or-Rashid, Additional Divisional Commissioner Habibur Rahman, Rajshahi Development Authority Chief Executive Officer Mashiur Rahman and Additional Superintendent of Police Shariful Islam attended as special guests.

District Cultural Officer Farukur Rahman Faisal delivered the welcome address.

Officials and employees of government and private organisations, cultural activists, teachers, students and journalists were also present.

The programme concluded with a cultural performance.