Rajbari:Cultural Affairs Minister Nitai Roy Chowdhury expressed concerns over the dominance of foreign cultural practices in Bangladesh, which he claims aimed to undermine the country's rich native culture as part of a deliberate plan.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Nitai Roy Chowdhury made these remarks during a daylong event commemorating the 179th birth anniversary of renowned writer Mir Mosharraf Hossain at the Mir Mosharraf Hossain Memorial Centre in Padamdi village, Baliakandi upazila.
The minister alleged that the education system was severely damaged during a fascist regime, leading many students to drug abuse under the influence of foreign cultures. The commemorative event featured a seminar, cultural performances, a fair, a quiz competition, and a prize distribution ceremony.
Nitai Roy Chowdhury praised Mir Mosharraf Hossain as an enduring storyteller in Bangla literature, emphasizing that his work ‘Bishad Sindhu’ is a priceless contribution to the literary heritage. He stated that it is a sacred duty to present the writer's works to newer generations and preserve his legacy.
The minister also announced plans to revive the traditional folk theater, Jatra, and to construct a university college, a cultural centre, and a library in Hossain's birthplace. Additionally, he noted that Mir Mosharraf Hossain College would soon be declared a government institution.
The event commenced at 930 am with tributes at the writer's grave and a children's drawing competition. Rajbari Deputy Commissioner Afroza Pervin chaired the event, with notable attendees including Rajbari-2 lawmaker Md Harun-or-Rashid, Bangla Academy Director General Prof Mohammad Azam, and former Rajbari district BNP convener Advocate Liaquat Ali. Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy Director Md Saifur Rahman and Mir Mosharraf Hossain Memorial Center President Professor Salam Tasir were also present, while Bangla Academy Secretary Dr Muhammad Selim Reza delivered the welcome address.