The newly developed 'Nazrul Village', an initiative of the Rajshahi District Administration to commemorate the Nazrul Year declared in honour of National Poet Kazi Nazrul Islam, was officially inaugurated on Saturday.
The inauguration ceremony was held opposite the Central Botanical Garden and Zoo in Rajshahi, where Land Minister Mizanur Rahman Minu, MP, unveiled the commemorative plaque.
Following the inauguration, the minister offered prayers and planted a tree on the premises.
Speaking at the event, the Land Minister said that the plaque had been unveiled as the first step of the project. Once the construction is fully completed, BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman will be invited to Rajshahi to formally inaugurate the entire Nazrul Village.
Rajshahi Deputy Commissioner said the initiative aims to promote the literary works, poetry and songs of National Poet Kazi Nazrul Islam among the younger generation.
As part of the project, a Nazrul Stage and a Nazrul Corner are being developed in an open, tree-lined environment where people will be able to gather throughout the year to practise and celebrate Nazrul's literature, music and cultural heritage.
He added that no multi-storey building would be constructed at the site. Instead, the venue will remain completely open to the public, allowing individuals and cultural organisations to organise dramas, folk performances and literary activities inspired by the poet at any time.
The Deputy Commissioner further said that an initial fund of Tk 2.5 million had been raised from various sources for the project. Of the total amount, approximately Tk 1.0–1.2 million has been allocated for the construction of the Nazrul Stage.
To ensure year-round cultural activities, the district administration has also introduced a Nazrul Calendar, under which regular literary and cultural programmes will be organised throughout the year at the venue.
