Description
The Nazrul Shamadhi project was undertaken to redesign an existing tomb complex of the National Poet Kazi Nazrul Islam at the request of the government. This comprehensive design approach deals with deliberation, considering the issues and existing characteristics of the graveyard and landscape.
The conservation project aimed to address the existing issues in the tomb complex, which had a six-foot-stepped design that made it difficult for visitors to sit, engage in religious activities, and have facilities like washrooms, information booths, and literature discussions. The tombs of Kazi Nazrul Islam, the Buddhijibi graves of 1971, and Zainul Abedin and Patua Kamal were scattered on site, with each grave having a different time period. The restituted tomb complex, adjacent to the cultural corridor, embodies simplicity and blends with the surroundings through open design elements. It has three entries, with the main entry on the east, another from the Fine Arts Institute on the north and the university mosque court on the south. The main approach block now includes services such as an information booth, washrooms, a store, and reception. The tomb complex now acts as an open green courtyard with connected pedestrian circulation, guiding the hierarchy of space and function. A raised paved area, surrounded by green patches, is en route to the tomb of Kazi Nazrul Islam, the Buddhijibi graves of 1971, and the graves of Zainul Abedin and Patua Kamal. Raised brick peripheral seating that visitors who are tired use facilitates the walkways. The new structure reduces the effort of climbing stairs and creates an in-between floral patch as a buffer zone between visitors and the tomb. The tomb is omnidirectional, allowing visitors to view and photograph from all sides during ceremonies without hindering the ritual. A circle is in front of the tomb as a preparation area for visitors before the ceremonial approach. The open platform at the North facilitates the recitation and delivery of speeches. Existing trees and Supari trees, planted in honor of Kazi Nazrul Islam, are integrated with new plantations to maintain consistency in the landscape.
Nazrul Shamadhi is an important cultural monument in Bangladesh that pays tribute to the contributions of the national poet, Kazi Nazrul Islam. It is a serene and peaceful place that truly reflects the multicultural heritage of Bangladesh.
