Sadarang pays tribute to Prof. Jamal Nazrul Islam

To commemorate country's eminent scientist and cosmologist Prof. Emeritus Dr. Jamal Nazrul Islam, a discussion and a cultural programme was held in the port city on Friday evening. To pay homage to the great scientist, Sadarang Uchchanga Sangeet Parishad Bangladesh, a Chittagong-based organsiation working to popularise classical music among the young generation, organised the programme at Theatre Institute, Chittagong (TIC). 

At the programme, Chittagong University Vice-Chancellor Professor Iftekhar Uddin Chowdhury, also the President of the Parishad, said Dr. Jamal Nazrul returned to the country despite better offers abroad as he was a real patriot. 

“He was a humanist. He was also attracted by philosophy of Moulana Jamal Uddin Rumi,” said the CU VC adding that the scientist was fond of Sufi music as it stresses on love towards mankind.  

Prof Jamal Nazrul's wife Suraiya Islam in her speech said, “Literature and history was my field of interest. But coming in contact with Jamal, I have also been interested in science.”

“Though he was a scientist, he was fond of music and liked to attend all the musical programmes highlighting culture of the region,” said Suraiya Islam.

Sadarang commenced its journey in 1998. After five years, the famed scientist joined with the organisation and from then on he held the post of the President of the organisation till his death on March 16, 2013, said organisers.

Sadarang General Secretary Swarnamoy Chakraborty said despite his illness, just three or four days before his death, the scientist attended at the programme of the organisation as he was drawn towards music. 

“The scientist had rendered the song 'Kono Ek Ga(n)yer Bodhur Kotha Tomay' playing harmonium at the programme and it was his last performance,” said Swarnamoy, adding that apart from classical music, Tagore songs, Nazrul Sangeet, mystic songs like Qawwali and baul songs were also his favourite.   

Following the discussion, a cultural programme was held where Priati Barua presented a khyal on raga Yaman with Surajit Sen on tabla. Roji Sen next played raga Kirwani on sitar with Sushanta Kar Chowdhury on tabla.

Chittagong University Professor Tapanjoyti Barua, Professor Mostafizur Rahman, Professor Benu Kumar Dey and Professor Golam Mustafa also addressed the programme.