Humanity must remain the core strength of the nation, not division or discord, Cultural Affairs Minister Nitai Roy Chowdhury said at a program marking Shaheed Day and International Mother Language Day.
The event titled "Ekushey Kobita" was held on Sunday afternoon at the National Art Gallery auditorium of Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy. The minister attended as the chief guest, while State Minister Ali Newaz Mahmud Khaiyam joined as special guest.
At the beginning of his speech, the minister prayed for the souls of martyrs of the Liberation War, language martyrs, those killed during the July 2024 mass uprising, and poets and writers who sacrificed their lives for the country and its people.
Highlighting the power of poetry, he said poetry does not only evoke emotions or bring people to tears; it also inspires people to stand for truth and justice. He noted that during the 1971 Liberation War, a strong cultural movement played a vital role in inspiring the nation. Similarly, he said, the thoughts of the student-led movement in 2024 carried the dream of a new, discrimination-free Bangladesh.
Referring to the current social context, he said humanity is the main source of national strength. Division and disunity should never be the nation’s goal. He stressed the need to build a prosperous and humane Bangladesh where people are recognized for their honesty, integrity and patriotism.
State Minister Ali Newaz Mahmud Khaiyam called for making the cultural arena more dynamic and vibrant. He expressed hope that the country’s cultural sector would continue working tirelessly under the leadership of Tarique Rahman.
The program was chaired by Director General of the academy Sheikh Rezauddin Ahmed. Renowned poets of the country recited their original poems, while prominent recitation artists performed patriotic and Ekushey-themed poems, captivating the audience.
Cultural activists, poets, writers and people from different professions attended the program. Organizers said such initiatives would continue in the future to spread the spirit of Ekushey and humanitarian values among the people.
