DHAKA: Bangladeshi literature for the first time has been extensively included in the curriculum of the University of North Bengal in Siliguri of West Bengal in India. A total of six full courses have been introduced in the Bangla Department of the University. The students will now study books of renowned poets and writers of Bangladesh.

Although some Indian universities include a handful of Bangladeshi writers including Shamsur Rahman, Al Mahmud, Hasan Azizul Huq and Selina Hossain in their syllabi, it has not been significant in terms of volume and importance. Bangladeshi literature has now got a significant place in Bengali literary studies in India.

The courses are “History of Bengali Literature in Bangladesh”, “Poetry”, “Story”, “Novel”, “Play” and “Memoir, Liberation War and Autobiography”. 

Books selected in these courses include: 

Poetry

Shamsur Rahman’s Bondi Shibir Theke

Nirmalendu Goon’s Hulia 

Shamim Reza’s Jokhon Rattir Naima Ashe Suborno Nagare 

Fiction

Akhtaruzzaman Elias’s Chilekothar Sepai

Selina Hossain’s Juddho 

Shahidul Zaheer’s Jibon o Rajnoitik Bastobota 

Drama 

Syed Shamsul Haq’s Nuruldeener Sara Jibon 

Selim Al Deen’s Nimojjon 

Sayeed Ahmed’s Kalbela

Short fiction

Shawkat Ali’s Unmul Bashona

Hasan Azizul Huq’s Atmaja o Ekti Kobori Gaachh

Prashanta Mridha’s Judhistheerer Shongi

Memoir, Liberation War and Autobiography

Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman’s Oshomapto Attojiboni

Jahanara Imam’s Ekattorer Dinguli

Maidul Hasan’s Muldhara 71

Bangladeshi poets and writers have welcomed this initiative.

According to them, this initiative will open the window in removing the longstanding disparity between the literature of West Bengal and Bangladesh in the curriculum of Indian academia. 

Noted poet and teacher at Jahangirnagar University Shamim Reza said: “It is a matter of great pride for me that my book of poetry has been included alongside works of many renowned authors of Bangladesh in the curriculum of University of North Bengal, India. I specially thank the university authority.”

A bridge of friendship between Bangladesh and West Bengal, India will be opened through literature, Bangladeshi poets and writers expected.

BDST: 1454 HRS, JUN 20, 2020
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