The opening function took place at Hotel Vivanta where Parimal Shuklabaidya, Honourable Minister, Department of Environment and Forest, Excise and Fisheries, Government of Assam was present as the Guest of Honour.
In his address, Dr. Hasan Mahmud elaborated how Birth Centenary of Father of the Nation Bangabandhu and Golden Jubilee of Bangladesh Independence are being celebrated around the world. He also explained the role of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman in shaping the path of independence from 1947 to 1971 and also elaborated his charismatic leadership during the post-independence era in rebuilding the war ravaged nation. He recalled the Foreign Policy undertaken by the Government of Bangabandhu and how Bangabandhu was transformed into Biswabandhu by leading various international fora.
Minister for Fisheries, Livestock and Environment Minister of Assam Parimal Shuklabaidya in his speech emphasized on increasing the number of cultural exchange programmes. He said, “people of both the countries would come to know each other more closely by exchanging more and more movies”.
The cultural soiree was illuminated by various ethnic performances of Assam. The most enthralling part was dance performance on the famous songs on Banganbandhu translated into Assamese language by Manjary Dance Academy and traditional Bihu Dance Soiree by Assamese artists.
Bangladesh eminent Folk Artist Fakir Shahabuddin and Assamese renowned folk singer offered rendition which bemused the Indian audiences. Enchanting fireworks took place during the inauguration ceremony of the Film Festival. Bengali delicate dishes were served for the invited guests. Senior politicians, bureaucrats, films artists, cultural elites and media representatives of Assam were present.
Among others, Shaimum Sarwar Kamal, MP, Famous Singer and Politician Mamtaj Begum, MP and Information Secretary Mokbul Hossain, PAA spoke on the occasion. Famous Film Actor Firdous and Actress Apu Biwas also made their presence at the show. Among the list of films selected for screening are Hasina A Daughter’s Tale, Zero Degree, Jalaler Golp, Bapjaner Bioscope, Krishnapaksha, Bhuban Majhi, Dhaka Attack, Poramon 2. Guerilla, No-Dorai and Bhuban Majhi etc.
Earlier, the Information and Broadcasting Minister called on the Governor and Chief Minister of Assam in their offices. They discussed on various issues on bilateral interest. The Minister also inaugurated Bangabandhu Corners at Bangladesh Assistant High Commission and Assam down town University of Guwahati.
Broadcast Journalist , BBC News