Kazi Nazrul Islam revered in Mahbubul Khalid’s song

The 122nd birth anniversary of National Poet Kazi Nazrul Islam is being observed today (Tuesday) in a befitting manner. Nazrul was born on the 11th Joishtha in Bengali calendar year 1306 in the village of Churulia, Asansol Sadar, Paschim Bardhaman district of the Bengal Presidency (now in West Bengal, India).

Known as the 'Bidrohi Kobi' (Rebel Poet), Nazrul enriched Bangla literature and music with his extraordinary genius. He was a poet, lyricist, musician, revolutionary and philosopher. There are 2,400 of his songs, and together, they are known as Nazrul Sangeet.

Nazrul was the poet of rebellion against injustice and taboos. His nickname was Dhukhu Miah (Mr Sorrow). True to his name, Nazrul suffered a lot in his life. In 1942, he developed a rare neurological disorder that led to the loss of his voice and memory which doctors in Vienna diagnosed it as Pick's disease.

Kazi Nazrul Islam was brought to Dhaka in 1972 after the independence of Bangladesh and conferred with the status of 'National Poet'.

On August 27 (12 Bhadra of Bangla calendar year) in 1976, the poet breathed his last at the then PG Hospital, now Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University Hospital (BSMMU), in Dhaka. He was buried beside the central mosque of Dhaka University.

Noted Bangladeshi poet, lyricist and composer Mahbubul Khalid has penned a song that pays rich tribute to Kazi Nazrul Islam. Late composer Ahmed Imtiaz Bulbul tuned the song titled 'Agnibinar Phool' (Flower of fire-harp). Two young singers Rajib and Lemis rendered their voices on the song dedicated to the National Poet.

The song has been published on Mahbubul Khalid’s musical website ‘khalidsangeet.com’. Besides, a music video is also available on the composer's YouTube channel 'Khalid Sangeet'.

It is to be noted that, Mahbubul Khalid has written many songs on renowned personalities, different national and international days, religions festivals, social celebrations, romanticism, philosophy etc. His songs portray the sufferings and possibilities of human being and urge all to establish a violence free universe.

His recent song on Covid-19 pandemic titled 'Corona Ke Voy Koro Na' (Don't get panicked of Coronavirus) has been widely appreciated and created awareness on the deadly virus.