Rajshahi: A two-day literary festival, “First Rajshahi Literary Festival 2026,” has commenced at the Boro Kuthi Open Stage, adjacent to Padma Garden, in Rajshahi. Organised by the Rajshahi Writers Collective, the event aims to promote literature, art, and humanitarian resistance, and will run through Saturday.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the festival opened with the theme “Human Imagination Against War and Aggression,” featuring a performance of the national anthem by Sannidhi Sangeet Niketan. The programme was hosted by Atikur Rahman Atik, organiser of the Rajshahi Writers Collective and President of Barendra Youth Forum. A welcome speech was delivered by poet and organiser Rafique Jibran, while the festival declaration was read by organiser and editor Nadim Sina. Poet and musician Kofil Ahmed also contributed through music and discussions.
Solidarity speeches were delivered by writer and researcher Pavel Partha, Rajshahi University teacher Kazi Shusmin Afsana, poet Mostak Rahman, and lawyer and cultural activist Murad Morshed. The speakers underscored the importance of unified, organised, and ethical resistance against war and aggression. They called on writers, artists, and conscious citizens to take a stronger stand against imperialist aggression, particularly targeting the United States, and to foster active solidarity with oppressed populations.
Expressing deep solidarity with those affected by conflict in regions such as Gaza, Iran, Venezuela, and Ukraine, the speakers emphasized that the bloodshed and suffering are not just local issues but global moral responsibilities. They advocated for a fearless stance against war, occupation, and aggression to uphold humanity.
The festival’s first session featured poetry recitation by members of the Rajshahi Recitation Council, and art activities by students from various educational institutions in Rajshahi. Exhibitions of little magazines, books, and posters are also part of the festival.
The event includes poetry readings, discussions on anti-establishment literary practices, and sessions on anti-war literature. Renowned writers, researchers, and filmmakers from across the country are expected to participate, with screenings of anti-war documentaries and short films, along with performances of songs, musical dramas, and street theatre.
A musical drama will be performed by Ladli Mohan Maitra and Alo Rani Maitra, and a street theatre titled “The Court of Humanity: Trial of the Crimes of Imperialism” will be staged. Organisers believe the festival aims to establish art, literature, and culture as languages of resistance, inspiring the younger generation to build a humane and just society.