Translated by Mohammad Shafiqul Islam

Today, August 27, marks the 48th death anniversary of Kazi Nazrul Islam, a day of reflection and tribute across the nation. Among the many commemorations, Desh Natok, a prominent theatre group, will stage two plays at the Bangladesh Mahila Samiti to honour the legendary poet.

Recently, the Chandler Community Centre in Melbourne came alive with the programme titled "Shompurno Nazrul" — a solo musical event presented by the musical organisation Surlok.

What can songs do? A lot, actually! They can win hearts and also aid in unsettling an entire system and dethroning the powerful. We have been reminded of the latter during the recent student protests and a powerful reminder it was as the Gen Z of Bangladesh took old, patriotic songs and used them in a modern context.

Review of ‘Bidrohi Puran’ (Pendulum Books, 2024) by Arif Rahman

Highlighting the universal appeal of Nazrul's poetry, Dr Kamal, who is also a poet, stressed the need to expand translation efforts to present the rich literary heritage of Bengal on the global stage. He urged bringing masterpieces of Bangla literature, including Nazrul's transcendent works, to readers across the world through high-quality translations. This would not only honour the genius of pioneers like the Rebel Poet but also facilitate a wider appreciation and understanding of the region's literary and cultural legacy among international audiences.

Kazi Nazrul Islam, according to Kazi Abdul Wadud (1895-1970), perhaps the first formidable critic who took him seriously, “was the first writer among Bengali Muslims of the modern era who was able to conquer the hearts of Hindus and Muslims alike of Bengal.”

Today marks the 125th birth anniversary of our national poet, Kazi Nazrul Islam. His stories and novels, which still inspire numerous films, have led to Bangladeshi productions being crafted around his ideas. Prominent Bangladeshi actresses, notably Rozina, Moushumi, and Purnima, have played significant roles in these adaptations. The occasion of the day thus calls for a recollection of their contributions to Nazrul-inspired cinema.

Kazi Nazrul Islam, the national poet of Bangladesh, turned the hardships of poverty and betrayal into profound sources of creative inspiration. He embraced his grief and expressed it through the evocative rhythms of his poetry and the melodies of his music. His works capture the pain of betrayal, alongside deep expressions of love and a relentless pursuit of equality​.

I am a poet because you love me

“I sing the song of equality– Of a country where fresh joy blossoms in every heart

Gems of Nazrul has crafted its 31st artistic music video "Joy Hok”, in commemoration of the 125th birth anniversary of our National Poet Kazi Nazrul Islam this year. This video is centred on several iconic Nazrul songs that ignited the spirits of the youth during the anti-colonial era and the 1971 War of Independence.

This year, four veteran figures are set to be honoured with the Nazrul Padak, as announced by the Jatiya Kabi Kazi Nazrul Islam University. The recipients of the award include renowned Nazrul Sangeet artistes Dalia Nausheen and Salahuddin Ahmed, alongside esteemed researchers Dr Gulshan Ara Kazi and Anupam Hayat.

A biopic chronicling the life of the revolutionary poet Kazi Nazrul Islam has received official approval in Kolkata’s film industry. The avant-garde project will be helmed by director Abdul Alim, with actor Kinjal Nanda slated to take on the mantle of the titular character of Nazrul on screen.

Coke Studio Bangla has launched a new video song featuring eminent poet Kazi Nazrul Islam’s “Karar Oi Louho Kabat", in its original tune sung by young students from numerous educational institutions of the country, to commemorate the 53rd Victory Day.

Debates surrounding the original tunes of the rebel poet’s verses have existed for a long time.

A legal notice was served on the government in order to remove or halt the streaming of AR Rahman’s version of the song “Karar Oi Louho Kabat” from all social media, OTT, and streaming platforms in Bangladesh immediately.

National Poet of Bangladesh, Kazi Nazrul Islam's granddaughter Khilkhil Kazi and grandson Kazi Arindam recently held a press conference to protest against the distorted re-composition of the song “Karar Oi Louho Kopat" by AR Rahman, for the film “Pippa”. 

The makers of "Pippa" could have chosen singers with prior experience of rendering Nazrul Islam’s songs.

Oscar-winning musician AR Rahman faced severe criticism for the remake of National Poet of Bangladesh Kazi Nazrul Islam’s song “Karar Oi Louho Kopat”. The general audience from both sides of the border has also been taunting Rahman about the song.