Dhaka: The Dhaka University unit of Jatiyatabadi Chhatra Dal today celebrated ‘Nabanna Utsab-1432’ to familiarize the young generation with the country’s old traditional practices and cultures. JCD President Rakibul Islam Rakib inaugurated the event at the university’s PayraChattar at the TSC premises.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the programme began with the national anthem followed by a party song. Rakibul Islam delivered the inaugural speech, after which a lathi khela performance was staged by the ‘Birshreshtha Noor Mohammad Lathikhela and Cultural Club’. Old traditional practices of rural Bengal, including a thatched hut, winnowing trays, and a bunch of ripe paddies, illustrating the spirit of Nabanna, were displayed at the event.
DU Treasurer Prof. M Jahangir Alam Chowdhury attended the event and stressed the need for arranging such initiatives to preserve the decaying native traditions. In his remarks, Rakibul Islam highlighted that JCD is not only active in movements and students’ rights issues but also reminds society of rural traditions like Nabanna Utsab. He emphasized the restoration of old traditions and cultures, noting that past cultural aggression had harmed local cultures and now there is a need to revive healthy cultural practices.
JCD General Secretary Nasir Uddin Nasir commented on the ‘dictatorial government’ that had been in power for 17 years, during which local artists were consistently undervalued at major events. He pointed out that significant funds were spent on foreign performers while Bangladeshi artists were sidelined, a trend that continued even after the recent mass uprising. Nasir urged the youth to be responsible and respectful of native culture.
The event was attended by DU JCD President Ganesh Chandra Roy Sahos, General Secretary Nahiduzzaman Shipon, and others. DU JCD Vice-President Anisur Rahman Khondoker Anik conducted the event. The programme will continue until 10 pm, featuring essay readings and cultural performances, including songs and dances themed on ‘KrishokerDukkho’.