A collection of Kazi Nazrul Islam's poems and songs, translated into English by celebrated Nazrul singer and teacher Nashid Kamal, was recently launched at Athena Gallery in the city. The book, The Return of Laili II, was published by Adorn Publication.
Justice Syed Refaat Ahmed was present as chief guest at the programme. Professors Husne J Alam and Haroonuzzaman, Adorn Publication CEO Syed Zakir Hossain and others were also present at the book launch.
Speakers at the programme said that translations of Nazrul's works will help in promotion of the national poet of Bangladesh at the global stage. They also praised Nashid's efforts in this connection.
The Return of Laili II is a sequel to The Return of Laili, and contains a total of 51 songs and poems including Jorin Horofe Lekha, Khoda E Goriber Shono Shono Monajat and Mrittu Nai Nai Dukkho.
Professor Nashid Kamal has previously written eight books - three of which are in Bangla and the rest in English, including a biography of Nazrul and a novel entitled Glass Bangles. The discussion session was followed by a performance by singer Armeen Musa and her band Ghaashphooring.