The birth anniversary of Kazi Nazrul Islam, the national poet of Bangladesh, was observed with deep respect and musical tributes across the country. To mark the occasion, a special concert titled ‘Thumri’r Jalsa’ was organised on Saturday evening at the Chhayanaut Auditorium in the capital.
Arranged by Bangladesh Nazrul Sangeet Sangstha, the event offered a unique musical homage to the revolutionary poet, who would have turned 126 this year. Unlike the traditional commemorations featuring patriotic and devotional songs, this event focused on Nazrul’s remarkable contribution to the classical thumri genre.
‘Thumri’r Jalsa’ beautifully blended Nazrul’s own thumri compositions with classical thumris based on age-old ragas. The evening showcased a range of performances by seasoned vocalists alongside promising young talents. Their soulful renditions revealed the depth and diversity of Nazrul’s musical works, proving once again his extraordinary ability to traverse genres and innovate within the South Asian classical tradition.
Nazrul’s work in thumri, though often overshadowed by his rebellious and patriotic compositions, highlights a different facet of his artistic journey. The concert successfully brought this lesser-explored aspect into the spotlight, reminding audiences of his fearless experiments in music.
Enigma Television supported the programme as media partner, ensuring the wider broadcast of the event. The initiative aimed not just to honour Nazrul’s memory, but to reaffirm his lasting influence on the region’s classical music scene.
Nazrul’s poetry and songs continue to inspire generations, his voice for equality and justice as relevant today as it was nearly a century ago. Events like ‘Thumri’r Jalsa’ keep his legacy alive while introducing new audiences to the vast and vibrant world of his music.
