Photo: BSS

DHAKA, Aug 27, 2026 (BSS) - Dhaka University (DU) Vice-Chancellor Prof Dr ABM Obaidul Islam today said the contribution of National Poet Kazi Nazrul Islam to Bengali literature and society is unparalleled, expressing the view that another poet of Nazrul's stature is unlikely to emerge in Bangladesh.

What Nazrul gave us in such a short span of time is endless. It is my firm belief that creating another Nazrul in Bangladesh is almost impossible, he said.

The Vice-Chancellor made the remarks at a discussion on the life and works of Kazi Nazrul Islam after placing a floral wreath at the poet's grave on the DU campus this morning.

Prof Obaidul Islam expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Tarique Rahman for declaring 2026 as the 'Nazrul Year', saying the poet is being remembered throughout the year through various programmes across the country.

By observing Nazrul Year, we are remembering him not only on two specific days but throughout the entire year. Nazrul is our 'Bulbul-e-Bangla'. He inspired patriotism through his resistance to British rule, the DU VC said.

Recalling Nazrul's life of struggle, the VC said the poet grew up amid extreme poverty but raised his voice against injustice, oppression and inequality while championing social justice, nationalism and communal harmony.

Nazrul is our consciousness and inspiration. From serving as a soldier to practising journalism, there is hardly any branch of literature--poetry, short stories, novels, essays, songs, Ghazals, Hamd or Shyama Sangeet--where he did not leave his mark, he said.

Paying tribute to the poet's legacy of resistance, Prof Obaidul Islam said internalising Nazrul's writings and ideals in contemporary society could help eliminate injustice and strengthen patriotism.

Nazrul suffered imprisonment and torture under British rule for his love for the motherland, but his pen could never be silenced. Celebrating his birth and death anniversaries alone is not enough; we must carry his philosophy and ideals in our hearts, he said.

The VC also urged researchers at the DU Nazrul Research Centre to expand their activities and facilitate wider national and international research on the life and works of the National Poet.

Nazrul's granddaughter Khilkhil Kazi, DU Pro-Vice-Chancellors, teachers, officials, among others, were present at the event.