Dhaka: The ‘Nepal Festival 2026’ took place at the National Theatre Hall of Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy, aiming to deepen the friendship and cooperation between Bangladesh and Nepal. The event was inaugurated by Bangladesh’s Cultural Affairs Minister, Nitai Roy Chowdhury, who highlighted the significance of cultural harmony between the two nations.
According to United News of Bangladesh, Minister Chowdhury emphasized the deep-rooted relationship between Bangladesh and Nepal, which transcends diplomatic formalities. He noted that both countries, although geographically separated, share traditions and cultural values that unite their peoples. In a world marked by divisions, the minister underscored the role of culture as a medium for peace and unity, praising the festival for fostering mutual understanding.
The minister expressed gratitude to the Ambassador of Nepal to Bangladesh, Ghanshyam Bhandari, for organizing the event and acknowledged the artists and performers for their contributions. He noted that the festival offered Bangladeshis a chance to experience Nepal’s cultural richness, hoping it would elevate cultural exchanges between the countries.
Special guests included Ambassador Bhandari and the Director General of Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy. The event drew distinguished guests, cultural representatives, and a large audience, who enjoyed a variety of cultural performances.
Ambassador Bhandari stated that the festival aimed to promote Nepal’s cultural and culinary diversity while celebrating the shared artistic and musical ties between the two nations. He emphasized that these cultural heritages form a strong foundation for bilateral relations and reinforce people-to-people connections.
Cultural Affairs Minister Chowdhury expressed confidence that the event would enhance relations between the two countries. He highlighted the importance of cultural exchanges in strengthening friendship and exploring further collaboration opportunities.
The festival featured 14 artistic performances and a ‘Food Fest’ showcasing Nepal’s traditional music, dance, and cuisine. The cultural programme included performances by artists from Pokhara Academy, Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy, and Nepali students in Bangladesh. The ‘Food Fest’ offered authentic Nepali delicacies, contributed by Nepali students studying in Bangladesh.
The festival attracted representatives from government and non-government agencies, cultural enthusiasts, media, and the Nepali community in Bangladesh, fostering a spirit of cultural celebration and friendship.