Prime Minister Tarique Rahman on Thursday said the ideals and literary works of National Poet Kazi Nazrul Islam remain highly relevant in an era of artificial intelligence and rapid technological advancement, urging efforts to take the poet's philosophy and writings to every household in the country.
He made the remarks while virtually inaugurating the year-long "Nazrul Year 2026-27 Celebrations" across all 64 districts and 74 selected upazilas from his office at the Secretariat.
The prime minister said that while artificial intelligence has opened new avenues of knowledge, it has also created risks of moral decline among younger generations.
He said Nazrul's poems, songs and writings, enriched with ethical values and humanity, can serve as a guiding light for the country's youth.
Tarique said Nazrul should not remain confined to discussions in government offices or cultural institutions.
"Instead, his literary works, philosophy and vision should reach every household across the country," he said.
Referring to Nazrul's poem Abhoy Sundar, the prime minister said the poet himself had envisioned future generations carrying forward his ideals.
Describing Nazrul as the "soul of Bangladesh," Tarique said the poet's ideals of equality, humanity and communal harmony remain especially relevant at a time when attempts are being made to divide people for narrow political interests.
Quoting Nazrul's famous lines, "Gahi Samyer Gaan... Jekhane mishese Hindu, Bouddha, Muslim, Christian," he said Bangladesh's enduring strength lies in the peaceful coexistence of people of all faiths.
"Even if evil forces try to create division and conflict for their own political interests, living together peacefully has always been the timeless value of the people of Bangladesh," he said.
The prime minister stressed the need to pass on Nazrul's life, philosophy and literary legacy to future generations.
He said the year-long celebration would feature literary conferences, research seminars, cultural festivals, Nazrul music performances, publications, theatre festivals and art exhibitions to bring the National Poet's works closer to people.
Tarique also underscored the importance of using digital platforms to preserve and promote Nazrul's literature and music internationally.
"This inauguration itself is being held digitally. In the same way, digital platforms offer us the opportunity to preserve his literary works and songs and introduce them to a wider global audience," he said.
Calling on members of the National Nazrul Year Celebration Committee, Nazrul researchers and educational institutions to actively participate in the year-long programmes, the prime minister expressed confidence that the celebration would lead to a renewed appreciation of Nazrul's works at home and abroad before formally inaugurating the "Nazrul Year 2026-27" celebrations.
