Staff Correspondent

Cultural Affairs Minister Nitai Roy Chowdhury has urged the nation to embrace the secular spirit of National Poet Kazi Nazrul Islam to sternly resist subculture, extremism, and communal dark forces.

The minister made these remarks while addressing the audience as the chief guest during the grand inauguration of nationwide cultural competitions across various educational institutions, marking the 'Nazrul Year' at the historic Bahadur Shah Park in the capital on Monday morning.

Culture Minister noted that Prime Minister Tarique Rahman announced the period from May 25, 2026, to May 25, 2027, as the state-designated 'Nazrul Year' during the opening ceremony of the Nazrul Jayanti in Trishal on May 23. People from all walks of life and culture enthusiasts have embraced this landmark announcement and emotion with immense pride, joining this nationwide cultural triumph.

Recalling past contributions to keeping the national poet's creations and works ever-vibrant, Nitai Roy Chowdhury said that Deshnetri Begum Khaleda Zia gave institutional shape to Nazrul studies by establishing 'Nazrul University' in Trishal, a place intertwined with the poet's memories.

Speaking as a special guest at the event, Ministry of Cultural Affairs Secretary Kaniz Mawla said that our main goal is to properly preserve the creations, philosophy, and literary works of National Poet Kazi Nazrul Islam at the national level and engage our future generation in such healthy cultural activities.

Presided over by the Deputy Commissioner of Dhaka Farida Khanam , the glittering inaugural ceremony was also addressed by Dhaka Divisional Commissioner Md. Moniruzzaman Miah, BNP National Executive Committee Cultural Affairs Secretary Ashraf Uddin Ahmed Uzzal, and Jatiyatabadi Samoik Sangskritik Sangstha (JASAS) National Executive Committee Convener Helal Khan, among others.