Dhaka: Cultural Affairs Adviser Mostofa Sarwar Farooki has extended his heartfelt congratulations to photographer Amir Hamja, whose powerful photograph capturing the burial prayers of Didarul Islam has been selected for TIME's "100 Photos of the Year."
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Farooki stated that this recognition is a testimony to Hamja's artistic vision and a proud moment for Bangladesh. He highlighted how the stories of the nation and its diaspora continue to be portrayed with depth and global resonance. Farooki expressed pride in the longstanding tradition of Bangladeshi photographers on the world stage, mentioning that photographers like KM Asad, Taslima Akhter, and Munir Uz Zaman have also been featured in TIME's 100 Photos of the Year.
Farooki announced that Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy will introduce photography as part of one of its departments, marking a first for the institution. This initiative aims to nurture creative talent and support artistic innovation, ensuring photography receives the institutional recognition it deserves.
The Adviser reaffirmed the Ministry's dedication to promoting the arts and celebrated this moment for Bangladeshi photography. He once again congratulated Amir Hamja and expressed anticipation for continued global recognition of Bangladeshi photographers.