Shadab Hasin Report,Dhaka, June 2: A vibrant discussion and cultural program was held at Royal University of Dhaka to mark the birth anniversaries of World Poet Rabindranath Tagore and National Poet Kazi Nazrul Islam. The event, which highlighted the intersection of literature, culture, and humanistic values, played a significant role in disseminating the timeless ideals and philosophies of the two legendary poets among the younger generation.
The event’s Chief Guest was Professor Dr. A.N.M. Meshkat Uddin, Vice-Chancellor of Royal University. Special Guests included Brigadier General (Retd.) A.S.M. Mushfiqur Rahman, Registrar of the University; Professor Dr. Dipu Siddiqui, Dean of the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences; and Associate Professor Jaharat Ara, Chairperson of the English Department.
In his speech, Professor Meshkat Uddin remarked, “Rabindranath and Nazrul are poets of humanity. They envisioned a world where all people, regardless of religion, caste, or class, enjoy equal rights and dignity. Through his literature and philosophy, Rabindranath rose above social divisions and illuminated the path to human liberation. Nazrul, through his voice and pen, boldly demanded social change. Their teachings are more relevant than ever in today’s world.”
Special Guest Brigadier General (Retd.) Mushfiqur Rahman shed light on Rabindranath’s commitment to social reform and education, stating,
“Rabindranath pioneered micro-credit initiatives to alleviate poverty and sought to integrate education with nature. His legacy remains an inspiration in the modern age.”
A scholarly paper titled “Rabindranath and Nazrul—Two Visionaries in the Realm of Educational Thought” was presented by Professor Dr. Dipu Siddiqui.
He stated, “Rabindranath was a pioneer of creative education, who envisioned learning as liberation of the soul through his institution, Santiniketan. In contrast, Nazrul was the rebel poet who raised his voice for equality, humanity, and resistance. Their educational philosophies still offer crucial guidance to today’s youth.”
Associate Professor Jaharat Ara, Chairperson of the English Department,
shared a statistical overview of Rabindranath’s literary works, describing him as “a poet, philosopher, and profound humanist thinker whose vision inspires us to stand against modern-day crises and division.” She also emphasized the significance of Nazrul’s egalitarian worldview.
The second part of the program featured poetry recitations and musical performances. Members of the Royal University Cultural Club performed Rabidranath’s iconic song “Aguner Parashmoni Chhoao Prane” in chorus. English Department faculty member Euki Barua, Associate Professor Jaharat Ara, and students Afrin and Raju Rahman also participated in the recitations and performances. The entire program was anchored by Raju Rahman and Afrin.
Among the distinguished attendees were Associate Professor Dr. MFM Amir Khashru, Assistant Professor Obaidur Rahman (Business Administration), Assistant Professor Amena Khatun, Assistant Professor Malobika Majumder, Assistant Professor Sharmin Sultana (CEC), Assistant Professor Umme Muslima, Lecturer Arif Hossain, Lecturer Shamima Akter, Abdur Rahman, assistant Controller of Examinations, senior faculty members, and administrative staff.
The university authorities announced plans to continue organizing such events regularly to instill values of literature, humanism, and secularism in the minds of the youth.