122nd birth anniversary of Jibanananda Das observed

The people of Barisal on Wednesday observed the 122nd birth anniversary of legendary Bengali poet Jibanananda Das, often considered to be the greatest poet of the post-Tagorean era for his contributions to Bengali literature.

Marking the day, different socio-cultural organizations arranged commemorative cultural events and also virtual programs.

Activists of Jatiya Kobita Parishad (JKP) Barisal branch and leaders of Barisal Sangskritik Sangothan Shamonnoy Parishad (BSSSP) paid floral tributes at his mural and held a discussion at the auditorium of Jibanananda Memorial Hall at the ancestral residence of the poet in the morning.

Recitation of poems, cultural functions, essay writing and painting competitions were also arranged on the occasion of the birth anniversary of the poet.

Tapankar Charaborty, president of JKP, presided over the program and, among others,  Nazmul Hossain Akash, president of BSSSP, Bimal Chakraborty, Apurbo Goutam, Asma Chowdhuy, Kazi Selina, Kamrunnahar Munni, Nazrul Huq Nilu and Mukul Das participated  in discussions and recitations of poetry.

Speakers and participants called for the implementation of the Dhansiri River Eco-park Project and the excavation of Dhansiri River. They also stressed the need for the establishment of a museum, memorials and sculptures of the poet in places connected with his life.

The speakers emphasised further studies and research on the poet’s life, works, ideology and impact.

Born on February 17, 1899, Jibanananda Das is arguably the most influential romantic poet of the post-Tagore era. 

The celebrated poet died in a road accident on October 22, 1954, in Kolkata.