CU holds seminar and cultural programme marking Nazrul Year

Chittagong University (CU) on Wednesday organised a day-long seminar and cultural programme at the Social Sciences Faculty Auditorium as part of the year-long celebrations of Nazrul Year (2026–2027), declared by the Government of Bangladesh to commemorate the 127th birth anniversary of National Poet Kazi Nazrul Islam.

The seminar commenced at 10:00 am, followed by a cultural programme at 2:00 pm. Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr Mohammad Al-Forkan attended the event as the chief guest. The special guests were Professor Dr Mohammad Al-Amin, Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Academic), and Professor Dr Mohammad Saleh Jahur, Dean of the Faculty of Business Administration. The programme was chaired by Professor Dr Md Shafiqul Islam, Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Administration) and Convener of the CU Nazrul Year Celebration Committee.

Addressing the gathering, Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr Mohammad Al-Forkan said the day marked a special occasion for Chittagong University, as the institution had undertaken a series of year-long programmes to celebrate Nazrul Year with due dignity.

Reflecting on the multifaceted legacy of Kazi Nazrul Islam, he said the poet could not be confined to a single identity. “Some call him the poet of love, others the poet of separation. Some describe him as the poet of religion, while others see him as the poet of secularism. He is remembered as the poet of equality, rebellion, freedom, youth, humanity and communal harmony. Whichever perspective one adopts, Nazrul continues to illuminate that path,” he remarked.

The Vice-Chancellor noted that Nazrul’s literary works and philosophy championed equality, justice, humanity and gender equity, values that remain profoundly relevant today. Referring to the poet’s immortal verse, “Whatever is great and eternally beneficial in this world has been created equally by women and men,” he said Nazrul had articulated the principle of equity long before it became a globally recognised ideal.

Highlighting the university’s vision for education and research, Professor Al-Forkan said a university should not be limited to classroom teaching but should also serve as a centre for research, creativity and leadership development. He stressed the need to engage students more actively in extracurricular activities, research and club-based initiatives. Drawing on his experiences of visiting universities abroad, he observed that students there devoted considerable time to creative and academic clubs. He expressed his hope that platforms such as the Nazrul Club, Rabindra Club, Science Club and Debate Club at Chittagong University would be further strengthened. He concluded by thanking the organisers and everyone involved in making the programme successful.

Speaking as special guest, Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Academic) Professor Dr Mohammad Al-Amin described Kazi Nazrul Islam as an extraordinary genius whose literary brilliance transcended conventional boundaries.

“We know Nazrul simultaneously as the poet of rebellion, love, equality and humanity. The combination of such diverse talents within one individual is truly remarkable,” he said, adding that despite growing up in poverty and being largely self-educated, Nazrul identified himself with people from every stratum of society. His poetry, he noted, was not merely literature but a vivid reflection of social realities.

Professor Al-Amin said Nazrul’s writings had consistently provided inspiration whenever society needed it most. During periods requiring patriotic awakening, his poetry inspired the nation, while in times of injustice, exploitation and inequality, it became a powerful voice of protest. He emphasised that Nazrul remained uncompromising in advocating social justice, equality and the rights of ordinary people.

Delivering the welcome address, Professor Dr Md Shafiqul Islam, Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Administration) and Convener of the Celebration Committee, said National Poet Kazi Nazrul Islam remained an enduring source of inspiration, courage and consciousness for the nation.

He observed that Nazrul’s poetry, songs and literary works reflected the struggles, culture, aspirations and dignity of the people of Bangladesh. Through his revolutionary writings, the poet awakened the spirit of freedom, self-respect and mass consciousness, inspiring people to stand against oppression and injustice. Quoting Nazrul’s iconic line, “Bol Bir, Bol Unnata Momo Shir” (Speak, O Hero, My Head Is Held High), he said the verse continued to symbolise courage, freedom and confidence. In his concluding remarks, he expressed gratitude to all participants and organisers.

The keynote paper, titled “National Poet Kazi Nazrul Islam: Patriotism, Humanity and Mass Awakening,” was presented by distinguished Nazrul scholar Professor Dr Mohammad Nurul Amin, who highlighted Nazrul’s commitment to equality, secular values and revolutionary literature.

The paper was discussed by Professor Dr Mohammad Anwar Sayed, Chairman of the Department of Bangla, and Professor Dr Taslima Begum, Professor of the same department. Professor Dr Muhammad Fariduddin, Director of the CU Nazrul Research Centre, also addressed the audience. The programme was moderated by Mishkatul Momtaz, Chairman of the Department of Music.

The discussion session was followed by a cultural programme beginning at 2:00 pm. Renowned Nazrul Sangeet artiste Ferdous Ara performed a selection of Nazrul songs, while students of the Department of Drama and Music presented musical performances and a captivating dance production based on the poet’s works.

The programme was attended by deans of various faculties, provosts of residential halls, the university proctor, the Director of Student Counselling and Guidance, chairpersons and directors of departments and institutes, residential teachers, faculty members, representatives of the Chittagong University Central Students’ Union (CHAKSU), leaders of different student organisations, invited guests, teachers and students of the Department of Drama and Music, as well as a large number of students.