Nazrul’s work must reach every home, says PM Tarique

"He inspires us to stand against injustice and oppression; his relevance and importance will never diminish," the prime minister says

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has called for the literary works and philosophy of National Poet Kazi Nazrul Islam to reach people's homes instead of remaining confined within the four walls of government offices.

He said, “The unrestricted flow of information technology and the limitless positive and negative impacts of artificial intelligence have, on the one hand, opened new doors of knowledge for our younger generation, while on the other hand, they have also created opportunities for them to lose their moral values and go astray.

“In such a complex reality, [Nazrul’s] verses --‘I will be the bird of the morning, rising first to sing in the flower garden’ or ‘I will not remain confined within closed walls; I will go out and see how humanity moves through the whirlwinds of changing times’ -- can serve as beacons of hope and moral guidance for our emerging generation.

“That is why discussions about Nazrul should not remain confined to ministries or government offices. His literary works and his philosophy of life must reach people’s homes.”

The prime minister made these remarks on Thursday morning while inaugurating “Nazrul Year”.

Joining virtually from the Cabinet Meeting Room at the Secretariat, he launched the nationwide year-long programme simultaneously across the country.

He added, “I firmly believe that the observance of ‘Nazrul Year’ will lead to a renewed appreciation of the National Poet’s works both at home and abroad. I wish every success for this celebration.”

Disappointment Over Invitation Card

The prime minister said, “Just as his [Nazrul’s] poems and songs served as a powerful source of inspiration during our Liberation War, his creativity became the language of protest and resistance in all our movements and struggles. He is an inseparable part of our everyday lives.

“His significance is not limited to history alone. Nazrul remains relevant for today’s generation as well as for future generations. With this objective in mind—to deepen the connection between the people, especially the younger generation, and the life and works of our National Poet—‘Nazrul Year’ has been launched through a series of events.”

Tarique continued, “Many government officials are present at today’s inauguration ceremony marking ‘Nazrul Year.’ Several Nazrul scholars and Nazrul music artists are also here. I congratulate all of you.

“However, while we are inaugurating this year-long programme, unveiling a commemorative postage stamp and logo from a modern enclosed hall today, I had envisioned this opening ceremony somewhat differently.”

He noted, “The invitation card states that ‘all divisional commissioners, deputy commissioners, and Upazila executive officers from 74 selected Upazilas will join virtually’. Instead, I believe it would have been more appropriate and consistent with the occasion if it had said: ‘Nazrul scholars, Nazrul musicians, and admirers of Nazrul from every division, district, and Upazila will join virtually’.”

Explaining his reasoning, Tarique said: “The reason behind this view is simple. If, during a programme to distribute Family Cards or Farmer Cards, the invitation stated that ‘Nazrul scholars, Nazrul artists, and admirers of Nazrul will join virtually,’ it would clearly seem out of place.

“By the same logic, stating that ‘all divisional commissioners, deputy commissioners, and Upazila executive officers from 74 selected Upazilas will join virtually’ for the observance of Nazrul Year also appears inconsistent with the purpose of the event.”