Dhaka: Information and Broadcasting Minister Zahir Uddin Swapon emphasized the transformative power of films during a speech at a festival celebrating the birth anniversary of legendary filmmaker Satyajit Ray. The event took place at the ZahirRaihan Auditorium of Jahangirnagar University (JU).
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Swapon highlighted that films go beyond mere entertainment, serving as a powerful medium that influences human perspectives, thoughts, and consciousness. Speaking as the chief guest at the two-day festival, he remarked, “Films are not just for entertainment; they are a powerful medium to construct human mindset, worldview, and consciousness.”
Swapon elaborated on the role of creative works in shaping human thought, stating that both films and books have the potential to bring about profound transformations and even paradigm shifts in how people think. The festival was a joint effort by the Jahangirnagar University History and Heritage Society and the Indian Council for Cultural Relations.
The minister underscored the significance of creative individuals in society, noting their vital role in influencing how people perceive and think about the world. He urged those involved in communication and creativity to continue shaping new perspectives through their work.
Drawing on the subcontinent’s historical events like the partition of 1947, Swapon noted its deep influence on literature, culture, and the intellectual sphere. However, he warned against allowing historical impacts to limit freedom of thought. Emphasizing the importance of openness in creativity, he encouraged reinterpreting history and tradition within contemporary contexts, advocating for courage and critical thinking as foundations for true creativity.
Swapon also called on institutions focused on history and heritage to enhance their activities and engage more with the younger generation. He praised Satyajit Ray’s legacy, highlighting Ray’s humanism and free-thinking spirit as values that remain highly relevant today, urging creative individuals to embrace these principles in fostering a progressive society.
The minister concluded by reiterating the power of cinema to deeply influence human thinking and societal perspectives, likening the impact of a meaningful film to that of a powerful book. Prior to his speech, he visited an art exhibition on Satyajit Ray at the venue and signed the visitors’ book.
The event also featured contributions from Acting High Commissioner of India Pawan Badhe, film researcher Moin Uddin Khaled, filmmaker Tanvir Mokammel, actor and director Toukir Ahmed, and film analyst Bidhan Ribeiro, along with teachers, students, and film enthusiasts.