DHaka, 24 June 2026: Culture is the soul of a nation. It is through culture that the true human spirit and consciousness find expression. Our motherland is a country of music, rivers, and golden harvest. We must revive our thousand-year-old heritage and folk culture, said Nitai Roy Chowdhury, the Minister for Cultural Affairs, Government of the People's Republic of Bangladesh. He was speaking as the Chief Guest at a special cultural program organized by the Department of Music, Jagannath University.
Chaired by Dr. Anima Roy, Chairman of the Department of Music at Jagannath University, the event was attended by distinguished guests, including the Vice-Chancellor of Jagannath and Rabindra University, the Treasurer of Jagannath University, the Director General of Bangla Academy, and the Dean of the Faculty of Arts at Jagannath University, alongside eminent faculty members and enthusiastic students.
Addressing the audience, the Cultural Affairs Minister highlighted the recent socio-political crises, stating, We have transitioned through a devastating phase where a totalitarian fascist regime systematically dismantled our state, constitutional, educational, and cultural institutions. Independent bodies like the Election Commission, Public Service Commission, and University Grants Commission were severely compromised. Even our glorious history and education system were intentionally degraded. Drawing historical parallels with past tyrants, he urged the younger generation to remain vigilant against any form of fascism.
Paying rich tribute to National Poet Kazi Nazrul Islam and Rebel Poet Rabindranath Tagore, the Minister noted, There were deliberate attempts to marginalize Kazi Nazrul Islam, but he remains the voice of the proletariat and the oppressed. His rebellious spirit inspires us to stand against injustice. He also lauded Rabindranath Tagore's deep humanism and his pioneering contributions to rural development and agricultural banking.
Emphasizing Bangladesh's rich ethnic diversity, Minister Nitai Roy Chowdhury said, Our country is home to nearly 50 distinct ethnic communities across the plains and hills. This diversity is our strength. Our government firmly believes in 'Unity in Diversity,' which forms the core of Bangladeshi nationalism.
Terming the students of Jagannath University as the bright future of the nation, the Minister advised them to pursue holistic education rooted in human values and national identity. He concluded his speech by promising maximum financial and structural support from the Ministry of Cultural Affairs to enhance cultural activities and enrich the central library of Jagannath University.
Following his speech, the Minister witnessed a spectacular cultural performance by the students of the Music Department and expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the organizers for hosting such a magnificent event.
