Today is the 153rd death anniversary of Michael Madhusudan Dutt

Today, Monday, June 29, marks the 153rd death anniversary of Michael Madhusudan Dutt, the great poet who introduced blank verse to Bengali literature. To observe the day with due respect, various programmes have been organised at the poet's birthplace in Sagardari, Keshabpur.

The Madhusudan Academy has arranged a commemorative event featuring floral tributes to the poet's bust, a discussion session, poetry recitations, dedicated poetry readings and Madhu-giti performances. The 'Dr Sukumar Ray Memorial Lecture' will also be delivered at the event.

Madhusudan Academy director, poet and researcher Khosru Parvez said the chief guest at the event would be Dr Tanvir Dulal, head of the Bangla Discipline at Khulna University. All preparations for the event have been completed.

Organisers said prominent poets and litterateurs from the south-western region, along with local visitors, would gather at the event. The Madhusudan Academy observes the poet's death anniversary every year in Sagardari.

Michael Madhusudan Dutt was born on January 25, 1824, in Sagardari village on the banks of the Kapotaksha river in Keshabpur. His father was zamindar Rajnarayan Dutt and his mother was Jahnavi Devi. After converting to Christianity in 1843, the name 'Michael' was added to his name.

The great poet, who introduced blank verse to Bengali literature, wrote timeless works including the plays 'Padmavati' and 'Krishnakumari', and the farces 'Ekei Bole Sabhyata' and 'Buro Shaliker Ghare Ron'. His epics 'Meghnadbadh Kabya', 'Brajanganakabya', 'Birangana Kabya' and 'Chaturdashpadi Kabitabali' elevated Bengali literature to great heights. The poet passed away on June 29, 1873, while undergoing treatment at Alipur Hospital in Kolkata.