Nationwide programmes to mark Nazrul year

The government has decided to organise three-day programmes across all 64 districts and 74 remote upazilas from June 18 to mark the inauguration of the Nazrul Year, Cultural Affairs Minister Nitai Roy Chowdhury announced on Sunday.

Speaking at a press conference at the Secretariat, the minister said the observance follows the declaration of “Nazrul Year” by Prime Minister Tarique Rahman during a three-day programme marking the 127th birth anniversary of National Poet Kazi Nazrul Islam in Trishal, Mymensingh, on May 23.

Under the declaration, the period from May 25 this year to May 25 next year will be observed as Nazrul Year.

Highlighting preparations for the nationwide observance, Nitai Roy said a national committee has already been formed, while a Nazrul Year logo, posters and a commemorative calendar have been prepared.

A special postage stamp will also be released to mark the occasion.

The minister said funds have been allocated from the current fiscal year’s budget of the Ministry of Cultural Affairs to organise programmes in all districts and 74 remote or special upazilas.

He said a series of events would continue throughout the year as part of the observance.

“The celebration of Nazrul Year will not be limited to cultural programmes alone. The Ministry of Cultural Affairs will take initiatives to encourage research on Nazrul’s literary works, music and other contributions,” he said.

Nitai Roy also said efforts are underway through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to promote Nazrul’s works internationally and introduce the poet’s legacy to a wider global audience.