PM for cultivating latent grassroots talent

Noting that a nation can only progress through the proper practice of art, literature, and culture, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has said the government is across Bangladesh to cultivate latent grassroots talent. She made the statement while inaugurating a four-day silver jubilee celebration of Shurer Dhara, a cultural organization, at Bangabandhu International Conference Centre (BICC) on Wednesday. The prime minister said the aim of her government is to establish a Bangladesh imbued with the Liberation War spirit and for this, it wants to further cultivate the country’s culture. She vowed to develop Bangladesh following the ideals and principles of the Liberation War. Sheikh Hasina also called upon all to stay alert so that no one can play with the Bangladesh’s independence, which was earned in exchange for the blood of millions of martyrs. The prime minister reiterated her stance that there will be no room for terrorists and militants on Bangladesh’s soil. Referring to various critical moments in Bangladesh’s history, she said the country faced some dark chapters in the past which people overcame with their struggles and sacrifices. The prime minister particularly mentioned that Bangladesh’s cultural arena had to face a hostile environment after the brutal assassination of Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman in 1975 as the anti-liberation forces grabbed state power. Talking about Bangladesh’s eligibility to graduate to developing country status, she laid emphasis on continuation of the ongoing development trend. Sheikh Hasina said the aim of independence was not only to achieve political freedom, but also economic, social, and cultural freedom. Praising Shurer Dhara for its work for children, she said the organization has been doing a great job of bringing many neglected children into the cultural mainstream. The prime Minister said the government is trying its best to provide necessary support to further strengthen cultural activities in the country. Chaired by Emeritus Professor Dr Anisuzzaman, the inaugural ceremony was also addressed by Cultural Affairs Minister Asaduzzaman Noor while Tagore exponent and founder of Shurer Dhara Rezwana Choudhury Bannya gave the welcome address. Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina also unveiled the cover of Shruti Gitobitan at the program. Later, the prime minister witnessed part of a cultural function presented by the artistes of Shurer Dhara.