Kazi Nazrul Islam’s 43rd death anniversary today

Today marks the 43rd death anniversary of our National Poet Kazi Nazrul Islam, a man who enriched Bangla literature and music with his extraordinary genius. Composer and lyricist of about 4,000 songs, which are known as Nazrul Sangeet, his literary talent is also evident in his poems, essays and novels. Known as the Rebel Poet, Nazrul explored a synthesis of different forces in a rebellion, expressing rage as well as beauty, love and sensitivity.

Nazrul’s compositions are based on the solid foundation of Indian classical music. He developed 19 distinct ragas, composed Khayal, Thumri, Tappa styled Bangla songs, as well as Kabyageeti, Bhajan, Kirtan, Ghazal, Shyama Sangeet and Islamic songs, among others.

His songs Rumjhum Rumajhuma Ke Bajaye and Hashey Akashey Shuktara, set on Raga Nirjhorini and Arunranjoni respectively, are remarkable. The trend of adhunik songs is also indebted to him. He also composed several complex songs, including Dolonchapa Boney Doley and Shono O Shondhya Maloti, set on Raga Dolonchapa and Shondhya Maloti, respectively.

Nazrul mingled the essences of several ragas and developed his own that are often very difficult to render. Compositions based on ragas including Debjani, Minakkhi, Banokuntola, Boro Hongsho Sharong and Rakto Hongsho Sharong are such examples.

Kazi Nazrul Islam revitalised many ragas that were on the verge of extinction. The compositions Nilambori Shari Pori (Nilambori), Kunjamala Goley Kunjey Esho Hey Kala (Malgunja), Bashonto Mukhor Aaji (Bashonto Mukhari), Phool-er Jalshaye Nirob Keno Kobi (Hijaj) and Jhoro Jhoro Jhorey Shawon Dhara (Ramdashi Malhar) are apt examples. By creating the Raga Asha Bhairobi, Nazrul declared the death of death in his composition Mrityu Nai, Nai Dukkho. Many centres of learning and culture in Bangladesh and India are founded and dedicated to Nazrul’s memory.