National poet’s timeless works to come alive on Melbourne stage

The timeless works of National Poet Kazi Nazrul Islam will take centre stage in Melbourne through a special cultural programme titled “Chirantan: Amare Debo Na Bhulite”, commemorating the 50th death anniversary of the poet.

The programme will be held at Drum Theatre, Dandenong, Melbourne, on Sunday from 5pm to 7:30pm Melbourne time (12pm to 2:30pm Bangladesh time), bringing together theatre, music and dance to celebrate Nazrul’s enduring legacy of humanity, equality, justice and social harmony.

The evening will open with “Shur O Banir Orgho”, featuring a fusion of Nazrul’s poetry and songs, followed by the lyrical play “Jhilimili” and the musical drama “Kaberi Tire”, marking the first time these two works will be staged together in Australia. Through contemporary theatrical presentations, the production aims to introduce new generations to the breadth of Nazrul’s literary and musical achievements.

The programme, conceived and creatively directed by acclaimed Melbourne-based Nazrul Sangeet practitioner Adila Noor, brings together a creative team from Melbourne and Bangladesh. Renowned Bangladeshi theatre personality Brindaban Das will lead the drama direction, while Adila Noor will also serve as Music Director. Melbourne-based Purabi Chowdhury will oversee dance direction and choreography.

A commemorative souvenir will also be published at the event.

Professor Irshad Ahmed Shaheen will also deliver the keynote address, highlighting Nazrul’s life, literature and philosophy.