TBM Report
To mark the birth centenary of Bengali poet Sukanta Bhattacharya, a program titled “Sukanta in His Centenary Year” was held at the BDOSN office in Dhanmondi, Dhaka on Saturday.
Social and cultural organizations Mukt Asor and Swapna 71 Publications jointly organized the program.
The program featured songs based on Sukanta Bhattacharya’s writings, poetry recitations, discussions and the publication of the commemorative book Shatobarsh-e Sukanta, edited by Abu Sayeed.
The book has been published as an initiative to introduce the poet’s life, literary works and humanistic philosophy to a new generation.
Poets, writers, cultural activists, recitation artists and literature enthusiasts attended the event.
Speaking about Sukanta Bhattacharya, educationist and researcher Mohammad Abdul Hai said, “It is truly astonishing that he accomplished so much at such a young age. It is important for the younger generation to study and engage with the works of Sukanta Bhattacharya.”
Researcher Prashanta Kumar Ray said, “Only a small number of people are able to create something truly great.”
Abu Sayeed, founder and president of Mukt Asor, said Sukanta Bhattacharya was a bright star of Bengali literature who devoted his life to working for the welfare of people.
“He worked tirelessly to build a new world. He also took the Kishore Bahini to new heights. He transformed the organization from 300 members into a force of 3,000 young people,” he said.
“Sukanta remains highly relevant even today, 100 years after his birth. It is our responsibility to preserve and highlight his life and works. That is why we have published Shatobarsh-e Sukanta. The book will remain a part of history,” Abu Sayeed said.
He explained that the book has two sections. The first contains memoirs, while the second features discussions on the poet and his centenary.
He further said Sukanta Bhattacharya’s poetry portrays the lives of exploited and deprived people, voices strong protest against inequality, and envisions a humane society.
Poetry was recited at the program by Mukt Asor’s literary secretary Sahina Mita, Nazmun Nahar, Jesmin Bonya, Yatul Nesha Ruma and Subrata Bhattacharya.
Shahin Akter Papia performed songs based on the poet’s writings.
Among others, Mukt Asor adviser Farah Diba Ahmed, poet Abdul Halim, journalist Yachin Mohammad, Mukt Asor joint general secretary Kaushik Chakma and Muktobondhu Shafik Uddin Shuvo spoke at the event.
The program was moderated by Mukt Asor joint general secretary Aysha Jahan Nupur.
Kathbirali Publications and the book magazine Boicharita extended their cooperation in organizing the “Sukanta in His Centenary Year” program.
