Leaders of the Bangladesh Samajtantrik Dal (BASD) on Monday paid tribute to National Poet Kazi Nazrul Islam on his 127th birth anniversary, calling for greater practice of the rebel poet’s ideals to counter growing violence, hatred and communalism in society.

The tribute was paid at 7:30am at Nazrul’s grave adjacent to Dhaka University, where BASD leaders placed wreaths and observed the poet’s legacy of equality, resistance and humanity.

The delegation was led by BASD Central Committee General Secretary Comrade Bazlur Rashid Firoz. Among others present were Assistant General Secretary Comrade Rajekuzzaman Ratan, Presidium Member Comrade Nikhil Das, Central Extended Forum members Khalekuzzaman Lipon and Main Uddin Chowdhury, and Central Study Circle Forum members Shahjahan Kabir, Anwarul Islam and Kamruzzaman Khokon.

Speaking after the wreath-laying ceremony, Firoz described Kazi Nazrul Islam as an uncompromising fighter against colonial oppression and exploitation who used both his pen and political activism in the struggle for freedom.

“He was the poet of rebellion, equality and love,” Firoz said. “Nazrul’s writings carried powerful messages against inequality and injustice, while also calling for resistance against superstition, religious extremism and communal hatred.”

He noted that Nazrul’s life experiences deeply shaped his literary and political philosophy. Before becoming one of Bengal’s most celebrated literary figures, Nazrul worked in a bakery, performed in traditional folk theatre groups and served as a soldier.

Firoz said the poet consistently stood against all forms of oppression and injustice and championed the causes of freedom, social equality and women’s emancipation through his poems, songs, essays and novels.

He also recalled that Nazrul had been imprisoned for his writings during British colonial rule.

Referring to the country’s current social and political climate, the BASD leader said Nazrul’s ideals remain highly relevant in confronting intolerance and division.

“In this time of crisis, Nazrul’s thoughts and philosophy can guide the nation,” he said, urging people — especially younger generations — to engage more deeply with the poet’s works and humanist values.

He added that wider practice of Nazrul’s ideals could help society overcome the “poison of violence, hatred and aggressive communalism.”

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