Mymensingh:State Minister for Cultural Affairs Ali Newaz Mahmood Khyom emphasized the importance of instilling the spirit of equality, humanity, and non-communalism, inspired by National Poet Kazi Nazrul Islam, in the new generation. He delivered this message as the chief guest at the inauguration of a two-day Folk Cultural Fair organized by the Mymensingh District Administration at the Baishakhi Manch of Jainul Abedin Park, marking "Nazrul Year."
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the State Minister highlighted Kazi Nazrul Islam's contributions as a versatile genius whose work in literature, music, poetry, and humanistic philosophy has enriched society and culture. He stressed the need for the youth to be raised with Nazrul's ideals of equality and protest against exploitation and injustice to build a harmonious society.
The Ministry of Cultural Affairs has initiated various programs across the country to observe Nazrul Year, including a nationwide talent hunt featuring competitions in Nazrul songs, poetry, dance, and essay writing. These competitions aim to discover talents from remote areas and will continue until May next year.
The State Minister also spoke about Bangladesh's rich heritage of folk culture and music. Starting December 1, folk and cultural festivals will be organized nationwide to preserve and promote regional traditions and the works of cultural icons like Lalon Shah, Hason Raja, and Shah Abdul Karim. These programs seek to pass on this heritage to younger generations and support the creative development of local artists and cultural workers.
The event, presided over by Mymensingh District Commissioner Md Saifur Rahman, was attended by local BNP leaders, officials, cultural activists, and civil society representatives. The fair features performances of local folk traditions, music, and cultural activities.