Embrace Nazrul’s Ideals to Build an Inclusive Society, Protect Animals: PM

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman on Thursday urged the nation to embrace the deeply humanistic ideals of National Poet Kazi Nazrul Islam, reaffirming his government's absolute commitment to fostering an inclusive society where people of all faiths can live in peace and safety, and where animals are spared from human cruelty.

"The present government is working to build such a state and society where every person, irrespective of religion or race, can live safely and without fear. Not only the safety of human beings, let’s also ensure that no animal falls victim to human cruelty,” the Prime Minister said.

He made these remarks while virtually inaugurating the year-long “Nazrul Year 2026-27 Celebrations” from his office in the Secretariat. The sweeping commemorative programs are slated to span across all 64 districts and 74 selected upazilas.

Highlighting the unique intersection of culture and modern progress, the Prime Minister noted that the deep wisdom and literary works of Kazi Nazrul Islam have become even more critical and relevant in an era heavily shaped by artificial intelligence and rapid technological advancement. 

While artificial intelligence has successfully opened up vast new doors to global knowledge, he warned that it has simultaneously created real risks of moral decline for younger generations. 

In this context, he added that Nazrul's poems, songs, and writings—all richly steeped in ethical values and profound humanity—can serve as a vital guiding light for the country's youth.

The Prime Minister emphasized that Nazrul should not remain confined to formal discussions in government offices or cultural institutions, asserting that "instead, his literary works, philosophy and vision should reach every household across the country." 
He also drew inspiration from Nazrul's poem Abhoy Sundar, pointing out that the poet himself had vividly envisioned future generations carrying forward his core ideals.

Calling the national poet the very "soul of Bangladesh", Prime Minister Tarique remarked that Nazrul's foundational ideals of equality, humanity, and communal harmony remain incredibly relevant at a time when active attempts are being made to divide people for narrow political interests.

Quoting Nazrul's famous lines, "Gahi Samyer Gaan... Jekhane mishese Hindu, Bouddha, Muslim, Christian", he reminded the audience that Bangladesh's enduring, core strength lies in people of all faiths living together in complete harmony.

"Even if evil forces try to create division and conflict for their own political interests, living together peacefully has always been the timeless value of the people of Bangladesh," the Prime Minister stated, stressing the urgent need to continuously pass down the poet's life, philosophy, and literary legacy from one generation to the next.

Detailing the grand scope of the events ahead, the Prime Minister shared that the year-long celebration will feature literary conferences, research seminars, cultural festivals, Nazrul music performances, publications, theatre festivals, and art exhibitions, all specifically designed to bring the National Poet's works directly to the public.

Furthermore, he underscored the supreme importance of leveraging modern digital platforms to preserve and promote Nazrul's literature and music on an international stage.

"This inauguration itself is being held digitally. In the same way, digital platforms offer us the opportunity to preserve his literary works and songs and introduce them to a wider global audience," he noted.

Concluding his address, the Prime Minister called upon the members of the National Nazrul Year Celebration Committee, dedicated Nazrul researchers and educational institutions to ensure active, vibrant participation in the scheduled programs throughout the year. 

Expressing his strong confidence that the celebrations would ultimately trigger a renewed, profound appreciation of Nazrul's works both at home and abroad, the Prime Minister formally declared the year-long Nazrul Year 2026-27 program officially open.

With Inputs from UNB