The 122nd birth anniversary of renowned poet Jasimuddin, affectionately known as "Polli Kobi", was observed with various programs on Wednesday.
Born in 1903 at his maternal uncle's home at Tambulkhana village in Faridpur, the poet's legacy continues to be celebrated across the country.
In honor of his birth, Faridpur's Deputy Commissioner Md Kamrul Ahsan Talukdar, Superintendent of Police Abdul Jalil, along with representatives from various social, cultural, and educational organizations, paid their respects by placing floral wreaths at his grave in Ambikapur. The ceremony took place in the morning.
A discussion and prayer session followed at the poet's residence. The event was chaired by Additional Deputy Commissioner Yeasin Kabir and featured speeches by the DC, police superintendent, Jasimuddin's son Khurshid Anowar, President of Faridpur Literature Council Sheikh Samad, and Professor Altaf Hossain, among others.
The speakers praised Jasimuddin for his significant contributions to modern Bengali literature. His works, reflecting the simple yet rich life of rural Bengal, are celebrated for their deep connection to the people and landscape of the region, which earned him the title of "Palli Kobi."
Among his iconic works are "Nakshi Kanthar Math" (Field of the Embroidered Quilt) and "Sojan Badiar Ghat" (Gypsy Wharf), both considered masterpieces in Bengali literature and widely translated worldwide. Jasimuddin's diverse body of work includes poems, songs, stories, novels, dramas, and travelogues, solidifying his reputation as a versatile literary figure.
As a lyricist, he composed many beloved Bengali songs such as "Amar sonar moyna pakhi," "Prano shokhi re," and "Amay eto raate." His remarkable contributions to literature earned him numerous awards, including the President's Award for Pride of Performance in 1958, a DLitt. from Rabindra Bharati University, India in 1969, the Ekushey Padak in 1976, and the posthumous Independence Day Award in 1978.
