Dhaka, Bangladesh - The curtain rose on the 22nd Dhaka International Film Festival on Saturday, January 20, at the National Museum of Bangladesh in Dhaka. The opening ceremony was graced by Abul Hasan Mahmud Ali MP, Finance Minister of the People's Republic of Bangladesh, who served as the chief guest. Shahriar Alam MP, the chief patron of the event, added to the prominence of the occasion. The star-studded affair also saw the presence of renowned actress Sharmila Tagore and Chinese diplomat Yao Wen.
The festival commenced with the screening of “Fereshte,” a film featuring Bangladeshi actress Jaya Ahsan, directed by Iranian filmmaker Mortaza Atash Zamzam. Following this was the Bangladesh-India co-production film “Mujib: Shaper of a Nation,” directed by Shyam Benegal.
Reflecting on the significance of cinema, Sharmila Tagore expressed: "Film is the medium to understand the world. Because images are stronger than any language." She also announced her honour in being nominated as a jury member.
Chief guest Abul Hasan Mahmud Ali officially declared the festival open, emphasizing the global impact of Bangladeshi filmmakers. "Bangladesh makers are going to the big film festivals of the world. They are keeping an eye on what is happening in the world's film world. Many films have come here from all over the world. I welcome everyone," he declared.
In the closing statements, Shahriar Alam MP welcomed film representatives from around the world, expressing his anticipation for the festival's future growth. "I hope this festival will be held on a larger scale in the future," he remarked.
Earlier on the same day, the Shilpakala Academy Auditorium hosted the screening program for the children's film section, featuring the collaboration with the Down Syndrome Society of Bangladesh. The event, chaired by Sardar A Razzak, president of the Down Syndrome Society, featured Shah Alam, managing director of Neuro Development Protection Trust, as the chief guest. The program included discussions and a cultural program with the participation of children with Down syndrome.
The Children's Film category showcased "the Trio movie," featuring a Mongolian actor with Down syndrome. Razzak emphasized during the discussion that children with Down syndrome should not be considered burdens but creations of God, encouraging love and acceptance.
