Rabindranath, whose multifaceted talent enriched all genres of Bangla literature and arts, was the first Asian to be awarded the prestigious Nobel Prize.

His poems, novels, short stories, dramas, articles, essays, paintings, and especially his songs have an eternal appeal to the Bangalees.

President Iajuddin Ahmed and Chief Adviser Fakhruddin Ahmed gave separate messages paying rich tributes to the poet on the occasion of his birth anniversary.

The president in his message said Tagore's contribution to enriching Bangla literature would be ever remembered.

The president noted that the multifaceted creativity of Tagore established Bangla language in the world arena. "So, he was not only a personality but also an institution."

The chief adviser said Rabindranath is an endless source of inspiration in every joyful moment and crisis in life. A vast portion of his creativity covers the people and nature of Bangladesh.

"Tagore's songs and poems had inspired the freedom- loving people during the War of Liberation," he said.

Government and socio-cultural organisations have chalked out elaborate programmess on the occasion.

Tagore's birth anniversary will be celebrated also at Shahzadpur in Sirajganj, Patisar in Naogaon and Dakkhin Dihi in Khulna.