Tagore birth anniversary celebrated in Khagrachhari

Speakers at a recent discussion urged the government to set up a Rabindra Institute in the country. The Institute, they said, conduct research on the great poet so as to create awareness among the younger generation about his immense contribution to our literature and arts.

The discussion, titled “Rabindra Shahitya and Shamokalin Bangladesh” (Rabindra Literature and Contemporary Bangladesh), was organised by Chenghi Khelaghar Ashor at Khagrachhari Town Hall to mark the 148th birth anniversary of Rabindranath Tagore.

Additional deputy commissioner Mohammad Khalilur Rahman presided over the function, while Sadar upazila chairman Mohammad Shaney Alam was chief guest. Referring to the remarkable repertoire of poetry, plays and short stories of the great bard, they said that Tagore was a beacon of hope for Bengalis, keeping the nation abreast of its rights, privileges and duties, while kindling patriotism as exemplified by his authorship of the National Anthem.

Among the speakers were Chenghi Khelaghar district committee member Putuli Chakma; central member of Khelaghar Ashar Dilip Chowdhury; director of District Shishu Academy Ushanu Chowdhury and Khagrachhari Press Club secretary Azim Ul Hoque.

Later a cultural function was held at the venue, where child artistes performed Tagore songs, dances, and recitation. The award ceremony saw 16 children in the limelight for their outstanding performances of Tagore- related writings.

Jasim Majumder, Khagrachhari