Dhaka University observed the 50th death anniversary of national poet Kazi Nazrul Islam through daylong programmes, including floral tributes, Fatiha recitation, a discussion and Nazrul music. On Thursday morning, teachers, students, officers and employees led by Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr A B M Obaidul Islam placed wreaths at the poet’s grave beside the university’s Central Mosque.

A discussion was held on the open stage at the graveyard, chaired by the vice-chancellor. Pro-Vice-Chancellor for Education Professor Dr Abdus Salam and Pro-Vice-Chancellor for Administration Professor Dr Mohammad Almojaddedi Alfechani spoke as special guests, while Nazrul Research Centre Director Professor Dr Tariq Manzur delivered the memorial lecture.

The vice-chancellor said Nazrul’s life and literary works teach people to protest injustice and inspire opposition to inequality, wrongdoing, torture and oppression. He also said the poet’s works offer lessons in equality, harmony, peace and strong unity. The programme was attended by the poet’s granddaughter Khilkhil Kazi, among others, and ended with Nazrul songs performed by teachers and students of the university’s music department. A Quran recitation programme was also held after Fajr prayers at the Central Mosque.