Staff Correspondent
Today marks the 49th death anniversary of Kazi Nazrul Islam, the national poet of Bangladesh, who was known for his rebellion against injustice, his voice for humanity, and his spirit of equality. On 12 Bhadra 1383 (Bangla calendar), he breathed his last at the former PG Hospital in Dhaka. He was born on 11 Jaishtha 1306 in Churulia village of Burdwan, West Bengal. Growing up in poverty, Nazrul went on to leave behind priceless creations within a short span of literary life.
In just 23 years of writing, Nazrul created a renaissance in Bangla literature. His poems, songs, and writings inspired people across generations to rise against oppression and exploitation, while also spreading the message of love and humanity. He once famously said—“In one hand the flute of love, in the other the trumpet of war.”
After Bangladesh’s independence, Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman brought Nazrul and his family to Bangladesh in 1972, granting him the title of National Poet. He was given a state residence in Dhanmondi. In 1974, Dhaka University awarded him an honorary D.Litt. He was granted Bangladeshi citizenship in 1976 and was honored with the Ekushey Padak the same year. To mark his death anniversary, various organizations including the Nazrul Institute and Bangla Academy have arranged discussions, cultural programs, and prayer gatherings.