Dhaka: Indian High Commissioner to Bangladesh Dinesh Trivedi has emphasized that renowned Bengali poet Kazi Nazrul Islam should have been awarded the Nobel Prize, attributing this to his significant literary contributions and influence on collective consciousness.
According to United News of Bangladesh, Trivedi made these remarks during 'Nazrul Sandhya,' a special cultural evening organized by the Indira Gandhi Cultural Centre (IGCC) of the High Commission of India. The event, held at Chhayanaut Auditorium, marked the 50th death anniversary of Bangladesh's National Poet. Trivedi highlighted Nazrul's pivotal role in challenging societal norms and inspiring people through his writings.
Trivedi described Nazrul as a figure who fought against all odds, revolutionizing collective consciousness, and lauded him as a symbol of resilience and creative genius. He further described Nazrul as the ultimate 'setu' or bridge between India and Bangladesh, emphasizing the enduring cultural ties between the two nations.
Nazrul's extensive body of work, which includes poetry, songs, essays, and other writings, addressed themes such as humanism, equality, freedom, love, and resistance. Born in Churulia, present-day West Bengal, Nazrul spent his final years in Bangladesh, passing away in Dhaka in 1976. His works remain integral to Bengali cultural life in both Bangladesh and India.
Bangladesh's Cultural Minister Nitai Roy Chowdhury, who attended the event as the Guest of Honour, also highlighted the universal appeal of Nazrul's works. He portrayed Nazrul as a poet of humanism who transcended religious and caste divisions and announced that the Government of Bangladesh has designated 2026 as 'Nazrul Borsho' to honor the poet's life and legacy.
State Minister of Cultural Affairs Ali Newaz Mahmud Khiyam, along with prominent Nazrul artists, cultural figures, and representatives from various organizations, were present at the gathering. The evening included performances by Nazrul Sangeet exponent Fatema Tuz Zohra, actor and recitation artist Jayanto Chattopadhyay, and Manipuri dancer and choreographer Samina Husain Prema. Through music, recitation, and dance, the event explored Nazrul's artistic legacy and recurring themes of humanity, equality, harmony, love, and freedom.
The event was part of broader commemorations marking 50 years since Nazrul's death, reinforcing his continued importance in the cultural relations between Bangladesh and India.