Trishal: Prime Minister Tarique Rahman today emphasised establishing the rule of law and changing the political culture to build a safe and humane state and society. ‘To establish a safe and humane state and society, we must establish the rule of law in the country and bring changes in political culture,’ he said while addressing the inaugural ceremony of a three-day grand national programme titled ‘Tobu Amare Debo Na Bhulite’ at the Nazrul Mancha in Trishal this afternoon, marking the 127th birth anniversary of National Poet Kazi Nazrul Islam.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the Prime Minister highlighted the relevance of Kazi Nazrul Islam’s life and works in reviving the country’s long-standing religious, social, and cultural values. He underscored the inseparable connection between Bangladesh and Kazi Nazrul, describing the poet as a true representative of national identity and a pioneer of nationalism.
On the poet’s birth anniversary, Rahman called for removing injustice, oppression, hunger, poverty, and division, urging the nation to embrace ‘Bangladesh First.’ He declared the inauguration of the festival as a pledge to dedicate efforts towards a prosperous, self-reliant, and democratic Bangladesh.
Recalling historical events, the Prime Minister spoke about Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman’s participation in the poet’s funeral prayer in 1976 and his involvement in a rally marking the poet’s birth anniversary in 1979. He also noted former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia’s establishment of the National Poet Kazi Nazrul Islam University in Trishal, emphasizing that respect for others elevates one’s own dignity through humility.
Rahman attributed the current decline in societal values to a departure from timeless ideals, describing Kazi Nazrul Islam as an unforgettable figure in national history. He praised Nazrul’s contributions to literature and culture, noting his revolutionary spirit and advocacy for women’s rights, the welfare of working people, and non-communal human values.
The Prime Minister criticized the previous fascist regime for plundering people’s rights and financial resources while destroying national institutions. He cited the recent tragedy involving Ramisa in Dhaka as evidence of moral degradation in society.
Rahman urged for Kabi Nazrul’s works to be shared globally and announced a proposal for the Ministry of Cultural Affairs and the Ministry of Tourism to explore the possibility of declaring Trishal as ‘Nazrul City.’ He expressed pride in resuming national-level Nazrul celebrations in Trishal after nearly two decades.
Honoring the poet’s legacy, Rahman paid tribute to Daroga Rafiz Ullah, who sheltered young Nazrul in Trishal in 1914. He offered deep respect and love to the poet’s memory on the eve of his 127th birth anniversary, praying for his eternal peace.
The three-day programme, organized by the Ministry of Cultural Affairs, is being held at the Nazrul Academy ground in Darirampur, Trishal. The event features speeches from various dignitaries, including Cultural Affairs Minister Nitai Roy Chowdhury and other notable figures.