165th birth anniversary of Rabindranath Tagore today

The 165th birth anniversary of Bishwakabi Rabindranath Tagore is being celebrated nationally on Friday.

Tagore was born on 25 Baishakh, 1268 in the Bengali calendar (May 7, 1861) at the Jorasanko mansion in Kolkata. A poet, philosopher, playwright, and painter, Tagore remains one of the most influential cultural figures of South Asia.

In 1913, he became the first Asian to be awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature for Gitanjali, a collection of deeply spiritual and lyrical poems that brought him international acclaim.

The Ministry of Cultural Affairs is observing the day nationwide with due dignity and festivity. 

State programmes are being organised in areas associated with the poet's memory, including Shilaidaha in Kushtia. 

A three-day national programme has been arranged. 

Similar cultural events are also being held in Patisar of Naogaon and Shahjadpur of Sirajganj.

Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy also chocked out special cultural programmes. 

Educational institutions across the country are also observing the occasion through cultural functions, discussion meetings and essay competitions.

The Ministry of Cultural Affairs and Bangla Academy have undertaken initiatives to publish and distribute commemorative souvenirs and posters marking the poet's 165th birth anniversary.