Dhaka:Children in the northern region of Bangladesh are being introduced to traditional folk songs and indigenous musical instruments through an initiative that aims to connect them with local heritage and culture while fostering human and ethical values.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the cultural and humanitarian organization 'Mayer Tori' is conducting regular training programs in remote areas of Lalmonirhat. These sessions aim to familiarize children with folk music and traditional instruments like the bamboo flute, ektara, and dotara. At the 'Suraloy Gurugriha' in Dawedoba village, Aditmari upazila, approximately 70 to 80 children are currently receiving this training.
More than 600 children are participating in the program across nine 'Gurugrihas' in the Lalmonirhat and Kurigram districts. Yusuf Alamgir, one of the organizers, stated that the program was launched to promote children's self-purification and understanding of life through folk music, providing them the opportunity to connect with their local heritage and culture.
Writer and culture enthusiast Hamidur Rahman Hamdi expressed concerns over the risk of disappearance faced by many folk songs and traditional musical instruments of rural Bengal. The regular training offered by Mayer Tori connects children and adolescents with these cultural elements.
Mayer Tori Executive Director Sujon Kumar Bose highlighted the visits and observations by representatives of social organizations and government officials. Despite limited resources, cultural activities are being conducted at nine Gurugrihas, with most instructors working voluntarily. The organization plans to establish a permanent facility for veteran folk culture practitioners and a center for folk culture research, with a modern studio for recording and preserving performances.
District Cultural Officer Md Hamidur Rahman emphasized the importance of free training in preserving folk culture and noted the need for additional support in training, musical instruments, and infrastructure. Deputy Commissioner Muh. Rashidul Haque Pradhan acknowledged the positive role of the training program in preserving local culture and suggested examining coordination with government cultural programs.
Founded in 2016 by Norwegian poet Uro Saether, Mayer Tori was inspired by Saether's experiences with Bangladesh's folk culture during a visit to flood-affected areas. Despite challenges, the organization's voluntary efforts continue to train children in traditional instruments and folk songs, with aspirations for government support to preserve the cultural heritage of Bangladesh's northern region.