PM calls for Nazrul-inspired inclusive society, protection of animals

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman on Thursday called for building an inclusive and compassionate society inspired by the humanistic ideals of National Poet Kazi Nazrul Islam, saying his government is committed to ensuring the safety of people of all faiths while protecting animals from cruelty.

“We are working to build a state and society where every person, regardless of religion or ethnicity, can live without fear and where animals are protected from all forms of cruelty,” he said while virtually inaugurating the year-long Nazrul Year 2026–2027 programme during a meeting at the Cabinet Division of the Bangladesh Secretariat.

The prime minister said the wisdom and literary works of Nazrul have become even more relevant in an era shaped by artificial intelligence and rapid technological advancement. While artificial intelligence has created new opportunities for acquiring knowledge, it has also posed risks of moral decline among younger generations, he said.

Tarique said Nazrul’s legacy should extend beyond government offices and cultural institutions, with the poet’s literary works, philosophy and vision reaching every corner of the country. Describing Nazrul as an enduring source of inspiration, the prime minister said the National Poet is not merely a historical figure but remains deeply relevant to the nation’s present and future.

“He is an integral part of our lives. His pen was a powerful weapon against colonial rule, oppression, exploitation, inequality, discrimination, superstition and every form of injustice,” he said.

He said every nation is shaped by extraordinary individuals whose influence extends across politics, society, literature, culture and philosophy, describing Nazrul as one such towering personality whose impact on the lives of Bangladeshis is immeasurable.

During the meeting, the government officially declared the period from 25 May 2026 to 25 May 2027 as Nazrul Year. It also announced that it is examining the feasibility of declaring Trishal in Mymensingh, which is closely associated with the poet’s life and memories, as Nazrul City.

The year-long celebration will feature literary conferences, research seminars, cultural festivals, Nazrul music performances, theatre festivals, art exhibitions and special publications aimed at bringing the National Poet’s works closer to the people.

The prime minister also highlighted the role of digital platforms in preserving and promoting Nazrul’s literary and musical legacy worldwide. “This inauguration itself is being held digitally. Likewise, digital platforms provide us with the opportunity to preserve his literary works and songs and introduce them to a wider global audience,” he said.

Tarique Rahman urged members of the National Nazrul Year Celebration Committee, Nazrul researchers and educational institutions to actively participate in the year-long programmes.

Expressing optimism, he said the celebrations would foster a renewed appreciation of Nazrul’s literary and cultural legacy both at home and abroad before formally inaugurating the year-long Nazrul Year 2026–2027 programme.