The rebel poet of Bangla literature was born at Churulia in Burdwan district of West Bengal on this day in 1899 (the 11th of Jaishtha). In 1972, Nazrul was brought to Bangladesh by Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman and was honoured as the national poet of the country.

Through his fiery poem, Nazrul had inspired people to fight against injustice and repression of the colonial rule.

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Eminent personalities, politicians, academicians, cultural activists, family members of the poet, poetry lovers and people in general paid homage to the poet at his grave on the Dhaka University (DU) premises in the morning.

Different organisations, including the DU and Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy, have taken various programmes like seminar, discussion and cultural events, on the occasion.

President Abdul Hamid and Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina issued separate messages highlighting the colourful life of the poet and his contributions to Bangla language and literature.

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Nazrul's poetry and songs inspired people of the sub-continent during the anti-British movement, and also the freedom-loving people of Bangladesh in their struggle for independence, she said in her message.

Special programmes on Nazrul's works, including his poetry and songs, will be broadcast by TV channels and radio stations marking the poet's birth anniversary.