National Poetry Day, the Minister of Culture prepares a statue of Chairil Anwar in Russia

JAKARTA - National Poetry Day again brings the name of Chairil Anwar to the public space. Not only through pilgrimages and poetry readings, but also plans to bring the figure of the 45th Generation poet to Russia through the construction of a statue at one of the universities.

Minister of Culture Fadli Zon conveyed the plan when he visited the grave of Chairil Anwar at the Karet Bivak TPU, Jakarta, Tuesday, April 28. This visit was held in conjunction with the death of Chairil on April 28, 1949, a date that was later commemorated as National Poetry Day.

Fadli was present with Chairil's family, a writer, poet, and cultural activist. He said his presence was a form of respect for the invitation of Chairil's only daughter, Evawani Alissa.

According to Fadli, Chairil is not only a big name in textbooks. He is a poet who changed the direction of Indonesian literature. Together with Asrul Sani and Rivai Apin, Chairil is known as the pioneer of Angkatan 45.

"Chairil Anwar, who died at the age of 27, has produced dozens of poems that continue to be an inspiration across generations," said Fadli.

Fadli also alluded to the cultural relations between Indonesia and Russia. He said Russia had previously donated a statue of Leo Tolstoy to the University of Indonesia. Therefore, Indonesia is considered to need to present its literary figures in Russia.

"Later, the statue will be placed in one of the universities that has a study of Indonesian language, such as in St. Petersburg or Moscow," said Fadli.

Evawani Alissa expressed her gratitude because Chairil was still remembered 76 years after his death. For him, the honor showed that Chairil's work was still alive in the community.

After the flower was sprinkled, a number of poets read Chairil's poems. Imam Ma'arif and Jose Rizal Manua also appeared. Fadli read the poem "Yang Terampas dan Yang Putus".

The event continued with a discussion "What is the Importance of Chairil Anwar for Indonesia" which featured academics and literary critics from the University of Indonesia, Maman Mahayana.

Maman considers the activities initiated by the Literary Community of Taman Inspirasi Sastra Indonesia to be important for the future of literature. Chairil, said Maman, is not only a legacy of the past, but part of the way this nation reads the times.