“Our idea is to encourage youngsters to do more research on Nazrul”

Nazrul Institute, established in 1985 in memory of our National Poet Kazi Nazrul Islam, has a mandate to preserve Nazrul's literary legacy . Among the dedicated few who chart the course of the institution is its deputy director, poet Rezauddin Stalin. Recently, Nazrul Institute has proactively undertaken projects to spread the light of Nazrul among young artistes. Stalin talked about these projects in a conversation with The Daily Star.

What  opportunities do Nazrul Institute offer to young artistes?

Stalin: We offer two-year long training programmes, launch CDs and organise stage shows where talented artistes are given the opportunity to reach a wider audience. Plus we organise “Nazrul Sammelan” in  various districts of the country.  Talented singers at the sammelan get an opportunity to perform on a national platform. We also reach out to young researchers, who are interested in carrying out research on Nazrul. We plan  to  award  those who have done remarkably well on these fronts.

How does a novice carry out research on Nazrul?

Stalin: For starters, a researcher can study Nazrul's literary works. Moreover, here at Nazrul Institute we have an archive and library where interested researchers can carry out independent studies. Other than that, noted personalities such as Professor Rafiqul Islam, Khairul Anam Shakil, Fatema Tuz Zohra, Khalid Hossain, Ferdous Ara, Yasmin Mustari, Sadya Afreen Mallick and more can guide young people on Nazrul and his life.

What are the upcoming plans of Nazrul Istitute?

Stalin: Soon we are going to organise workshops on Nazrul all over Bangladesh. There will be daylong programmes at various schools in Dhaka for young children interested in Nazrul. We also offer training programmes for poetry recitation. Other than that we will publish a book with 1000 Swaralipi of Nazrul . Our idea is to encourage youngsters to do more research on Nazrul.

On a different note, could you tell us how it feels to be the recipient of the recent “Ilish Utsab” award?

Stalin: Awards are recognition and getting recognised is what we all aspire in life. For the last eight years Chandpur's “Ilish Utsab” has honoured various lyricists, singers, writers and artistes for their contribution to their respective sectors. So, I am very thankful  to the organisers for the award.