Kazi Nazrul Islam, a literary giant and revolutionary poet, has been officially recognized as the National Poet of Bangladesh. This declaration was formalized through a gazette notification issued by the Ministry of Cultural Affairs on Thursday, signed by Secretary Md. Ataur Rahman under the directive of the President.

The gazette notification clarified that the decision to officially recognize Kazi Nazrul Islam as the National Poet was based on a proposal approved during an advisory council meeting held last December. While the status of Kazi Nazrul Islam as the National Poet has long been accepted by the people of Bangladesh, the government’s move addresses the collective expectation for a formal declaration.

Kazi Nazrul Islam, often regarded as a symbol of resistance and inspiration, was brought to Dhaka on May 24, 1972, from Kolkata under the initiative of the Bangladeshi government. He and his family were provided accommodation at 330-B, Road No. 28 (old), Dhanmondi. Later, in January 1976, the government granted him Bangladeshi citizenship, further solidifying his connection to the nation he had inspired through his works.

On February 21, 1976, Kazi Nazrul Islam was honored with the Ekushey Padak, one of the country’s highest civilian awards, in recognition of his contribution to Bengali literature and culture. In 1974, Dhaka University decided to confer upon him an honorary Doctor of Literature (D.Litt) degree for his exceptional contributions to Bengali literature and culture. Though he could not attend the convocation ceremony held at the university’s Teacher-Student Centre (TSC) on December 9, 1974, due to his health, a special event was later organized at Bangabhaban on January 25, 1975. At this ceremony, President Mohammadullah, the then-Chancellor of Dhaka University, conferred the D.Litt degree on him.

This formal recognition through the gazette reinforces Kazi Nazrul Islam's position as an emblem of national pride and cultural heritage. As the National Poet, his legacy continues to resonate deeply with the ethos of the Bangladeshi people, serving as a beacon of inspiration for generations.