New generation must learn about Nazrul ideals: State Minister Khaiyam 

RAJBARI, Aug 31: State Minister for Cultural Affairs Ali Newaz Mahmud Khaiyam has said the younger generation needs to learn about national poet Kazi Nazrul Islam’s teachings, literature, music and philosophy.

“Kazi Nazrul Islam was the poet of equality and the masses. We need to know about his teachings, culture, songs and writings,” he said.

The state minister was speaking at the inauguration of a two-month-long ‘Nazrul Year’ programme in Rajbari on Monday.

The district administration and District Shilpakala Academy jointly organised a colourful rally and the inaugural ceremony at Azadi Maidan.

Khaiyam said the nationwide two-month programme was being organised from Monday following Prime Minister Tarique Rahman’s directive.

He said cultural competitions would be organised at educational institutions across the country from September 13, initially at the school level.

Deputy Commissioner Afroza Parveen said the main objective of the programme was to introduce the younger generation to Nazrul’s literature and secular ideals and involve students in cultural activities.

“This will help develop students’ creativity, identify hidden talents and strengthen national unity and communal harmony,” she said.

She said Nazrul’s literature and philosophy taught people to stand against injustice, exploitation, inequality and communalism.

“Collective efforts are needed to spread his spirit of rebellion, humanity, equality and secularism among future generations,” she said.

According to the district administration, various competitions and cultural programmes have been arranged for students from primary schools, kindergartens, technical and secondary schools, madrasas, higher secondary institutions, colleges and universities.

The events include essay writing, extempore speech, poetry recitation, hamd-naat, Islamic songs, Nazrul songs and acting.

The programmes will begin on September 2 and continue until October 31.

Kazi Nazrul Islam is regarded as one of the foremost voices of rebellion, equality, humanity and secularism in Bengali literature. His poem ‘Bidrohi’ ushered in a new era in Bangla literature, while his contributions to poetry, songs, stories, novels, essays and plays enriched Bengali language and culture.