Sixth day of ‘Mujib Chirantan’ celebrates Bangabandhu’s love for our nation

Celebrating the birth centenary of the Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman and the golden jubilee of Bangladesh's independence, a ten-day programme, "Mujib Chirantan", began on March 17 at the capital's National Parade Square.

The sixth day of the celebrations began with the theme, "Banglar Maati, Amar Maati", marking Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman's love for his country and his people.

The event was attended by Honourable Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. She was received by her sister, Sheikh Rehana, National Professor Rafiqul Islam, and Dr Kamal Abdul Nasir Chowdhury, Chief Coordinator of the National Implementation Committee for the Celebration of Mujib Barsha.

The President of Nepal Bidya Devi Bhandari and her daughter Usha Kiran Bhandari were the chief guests of the event, hosted by Shahriar Alam, Deputy Minister of Foreign Relations for the Government of Bangladesh. The first part of the event featured an inauguration speech by Education Minister Dr Dipu Moni, followed by a poem recitation by noted author Selina Hussain. President Abdul Hamid also delivered a speech about the contributions of the Father of the Nation.   

An animated video about "Mujib Chirantan" was played during the first half of the event. It was followed by a video clip about Bangladesh, and the sacrifices made by Bangabandhu to achieve his objectives for our country, was played under the theme of "Banglar Maati, Amar Maati."

The second half began with an orchestral performance by Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy. Next, performers from Nepal payed a tribute to Bangabandhu through a number of colourful performances, providing a glimpse into the cultural diversity of the country. It included the traditional Shakela Dance performed by the rye community of East Nepal and folk music presented with sarong, flute and madol, the traditional instruments of Nepal to highlight the harmonious relationship between Nepal and Bangladesh.

The evening followed with a collection of performances on the theme "Banglar Maati, Amar Maati" under the direction of Liaquat Ali Lucky, Director General, Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy. He directed a folk dance, called "Hazar Bochor Dhore", showcasing the rich history and culture of our country.

It began with a musical and dance performance by various cultural personalities of Bangladesh, featuring the poem "Banalata Sen" by Jibanananda Das and other significant songs and poems of Bangladesh. The music was composed by Rokon Emon and choreographed by Amit Chowdhury.

It was followed by a theatrical performance written and directed by Milon Kanti De called "Maa, Mati o Manush", highlighting the beauty of Bengal and its people. Renowned singer Nobonita Chowdhury, along with a folk group, presented a number of folk songs under the title, "Shobar Upor Manush Shotto."

The diverse culture of Bangladesh was also explored through the dance performance by indigenous artistes of Bangladesh, under the guidance of Kanak Chanpa Chakma.

A musical and dance performance, including songs written for Bangabandhu, and songs that were close to his heart, were also presented under the title "Bangabandhur priyo gaan, Bangabandhu ke niye gaan". The music was composed by Nirjhor Chowdhury and the dance performance was choreographed by Saiful Islam Evan.

The show concluded with a performance called "Banglar Shororitu", depicting the beautiful diversity of the six seasons, sung by Ibn Rajon and choreographed by Mohfarhana Chowdhury. It was presented by BAFA.

The author is a freelance journalist.