As times change, technology changes, and so does the way we think. But the eternal spirit of humanity, justice, equality and love is equally relevant today - especially in the literature and philosophy of Kazi Nazrul Islam. The new generation urgently needs to establish a connection with this human figure, Nazrul. Nazrul has to be taken not only to the pages of textbooks but also to the world of young people's own languages, media, and thoughts. This generation will build a non-communal, humane, and just tomorrow, with the seeds of that future germinated in Nazrul's poetry, songs, and revolutionary thoughts.
To spread Nazrul's human spirit among the new generation, it is not only limited to reading literature, but a multi-dimensional framework has to be created by connecting them with their interests, technology and the creative world. Below are some beneficial tips and guidelines.
Incorporating Nazrul's intrinsic humanist approach in educational activities: From the primary to the university level, lessons should be selected from Nazrul's writings in which humanity, equality, and the spirit of resistance are evident. In this way, supplementary lessons with textbooks, discussion sessions, and teacher training can be introduced.
Promotion of Nazrul's literature and music through digital means: Since young people now spend more time online, Nazrul's songs, poems, and essays must be presented in the form of TikTok, Instagram Reels, YouTube Shorts, or podcasts. By creating short but significant content, Nazrul will reach young people more easily.
Organising workshops and seminars on Nazrul Philosophy: Interactive workshops, debate competitions, plays and creative works based on Nazrul's philosophy can be organised in different educational institutions of the country, where young people will not only be the audience but also the participants.
Presentation of Nazrul's songs and poems in contemporary tunes: If Nazrul's music is presented in the form of remix or fusion in modern music arrangements, young listeners will be able to discover his songs in a new way. But at the same time, it is important to maintain the respect and clarity of the original message.
Biography of Nazrul in the form of a comic, graphic novel and animation: Children will know Nazrul's ideas if his life and philosophy are taught to them. It is possible to make Nazrul their hero through stories, myths, humour and inspiration.
Introduction of literary competitions and scholarships on Nazrul: Educational scholarships or training programmes can be introduced for the winners by organising Nazrul thought-based competitions, such as writing, recitation, drama, etc. Youth will get encouragement and recognition.
Nazrul Festival and Cultural Organisations: Nazrul Festival can be organised at local, national and international levels, where his humanity, literature and music will be taken to the youth through concerts, plays, lectures, book fairs, etc. There may also be programs with translations for foreign youth.
Establishing 'Nazrul Club': By forming a club on Nazrul Thought in schools and colleges, regular lessons, creative writing, stage plays and social service work can be done among the members, which will help establish Nazrul's humanitarian and struggling thoughts among them.
Research-based and multimedia projects: At the university level, initiatives can be taken to make documentaries, blogs, websites, and mobile apps around Nazrul's philosophy and literature. They will get to know Nazrul in the coexistence of research and technology.
Nazrul's humanistic philosophy is not only a guide to the past but also to the present and the future.
We must bring this multi-faceted Nazrul to the new generation in their language. If we can combine literature, technology, culture, and education to make Nazrul's human spirit a part of the lives of the youth, it will be possible to take practical steps towards building a just, egalitarian, and tolerant society. This connection of Nazrul's spirit with the thinking and creativity of the new generation will be one of the key forces in our progress on the path of humanity.
The writer is a Nazrul Researcher
