Dhaka/ Kolkata, 10 March (H.S.): Bangladesh’s Cultural Affairs Adviser Nitai Ray Chowdhury has expressed concern over the growing influence of fundamentalist and communal forces in the country, warning that failure to counter them in time could lead to instability not only in Bangladesh but across South Asia, including India.

In an exclusive interview with the multilingual news agency Hindusthan Samachar's representative Kishor Sarkar, said the Ministry of Cultural Affairs is planning a series of music festivals and cultural programmes involving Bangladesh, India and other member countries of the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) to address these challenges through cultural engagement.

He said culture has the power to strengthen bonds among people and help create an atmosphere of harmony in the region. According to him, promoting cultural exchanges can play a crucial role in countering divisive forces.

Chowdhury noted that several parts of the world are currently witnessing conflict and unrest, with ordinary people bearing the brunt of such crises. In this context, he emphasised the importance of strengthening cultural dialogue and people-to-people connections across South Asia. He added that Bangladesh’s rich folk music tradition could play a significant role in this effort.

Referring to legendary folk artists such as Lalon Shah, Hasan Raja and Shah Abdul Karim, he said their musical traditions carry a deep humanistic message and possess the ability to connect people beyond divisions. The adviser also said the government is considering the creation of a common platform for artists from South Asian countries so that they can collaborate and perform together.

Speaking about cultural cooperation with India, Chowdhury said the new government in Bangladesh has not yet completed even a month in office, but it is planning to propose the establishment of a branch of Visva-Bharati’s Santiniketan in Bangladesh. In return, Bangladesh may propose the establishment of a Nazrul Academy in India named after its national poet Kazi Nazrul Islam.

He said Bangladesh aims to emerge as a major centre of art and culture in South Asia. With improved rail connectivity between Kolkata and Agartala through the Padma Bridge, he noted, it would become easier for artists from both countries to travel, further strengthening cultural exchange and mutual understanding.

Referring to the Liberation War, Chowdhury said the Ministry of Cultural Affairs is planning to produce a film on the life and contributions of former President Ziaur Rahman. He said it is important to present the true history of the Liberation War to the younger generation, many of whom did not witness that period.

Commenting on the new cabinet, he said it includes members from both the younger and older generations, creating a balanced and strong government. He expressed confidence that cultural awakening can help reduce the influence of extremist forces and enable Bangladesh to emerge as an example of peace and cooperation in South Asia.

Hindusthan Samachar / Satya Prakash Singh