Dhaka:Bangla Academy has embarked on an extensive renovation project to rejuvenate the 'Nazrul Memorial Room' located within the Burdwan House estate. This initiative is part of the year-long celebration of Nazrul Year, running from May 25, 2026, to May 25, 2027.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the project aims to transform the memorial into a visually appealing, accessible, and state-of-the-art research center dedicated to the life and works of National Poet Kazi Nazrul Islam. The room's historical significance dates back to 1928 when Nazrul attended the Muslim Sahitya Samaj's annual conference in Dhaka and stayed at Burdwan House, the residence of his friend Kazi Motahar Hossain.
The renovation plans include modernizing the space while preserving its historical essence. The memorial, inaugurated in 1978 by Kazi Motahar Hossain, houses photographs, rare books, and periodicals that chronicle the poet's life. Literary stakeholders have raised concerns about the room's limited visibility and operating hours, urging improvements.
Bangla Academy has partnered with photographer Nasir Ali Mamun for the visual restructuring of the space. Mamun will contribute rare photographs of Nazrul, with the arrangement focused on efficiency and aesthetics. The academy is also expanding its collection of research-based books on Nazrul and considering naming the adjacent pond the 'Nazrul Memorial Pond.'
The coordinated efforts of physical renovation, public promotions, and enhanced archival facilities aim to establish the 'Nazrul Memorial Room' as a leading center for academic research on Nazrul's legacy.