Diplomatic Desk:
A colourful cultural and discussion programme was organised at the Bangladesh National Museum to mark the birth anniversaries of poet Rabindranath Tagore and national poet Kazi Nazrul Islam. The Chief Guest was the Minister for Cultural Affairs, Mr. Nitai Roy Chowdhury, MP.
Acting High Commissioner Pawan Kumar Barde addressed the programme. He said that Rabindranath Tagore and Kazi Nazrul Islam have taken an equally deep place in the hearts of the people of India and Bangladesh. According to him, the continuous love and respect of the people of the two countries for these two great poets is a powerful symbol of the common cultural heritage of the two countries.
The programme was organised by the History and Heritage Council in collaboration with Indira Gandhi Cultural Centre (IGCC), Cultural School Tapoban, Nrityanchal and Bahumatrik.com.
One of the highlights of the evening was the dance-music-based tableau “Nrityagiti” performed under the direction of renowned dance artists Shamim Ara Nipa and Shibli Mohammad. It presented a creative combination of the songs and philosophies of Rabindranath Tagore and Kazi Nazrul Islam. During the performance, the artists performed group dances along with 14 of their popular songs.
The discussion session was presided over by Professor Niranjan Adhikari. The discussion was addressed by Professor Dr. Tariq Manzoor of Dhaka University and Professor Ahmed Reza of Jahangirnagar University. The speakers highlighted the influence of the literature, music and philosophy of the two poets and the importance of their contribution to Bengali culture.
A painting exhibition was also held at the event featuring portraits of Rabindranath Tagore and Kazi Nazrul Islam drawn by more than a hundred students from 13 schools in and around Dhaka. At the end, certificates of appreciation were given to the participating young artists.
