175 cultural activists call for a separate film division at BSA
In protest of the exclusion of the "Film" section from the "Drama and Film" sub-division in the revised Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy Act, 175 film-related individuals have issued a public statement, demanding the formation of a separate film division.
The statement presented arguments in support of this demand, signed by filmmakers, producers, cinematographers, editors, sound designers, film critics, researchers, teachers, film workers and organisers, actors, musicians, and photographers.
For all latest news, follow The Daily Star's Google News channel. They argued that the new generation of filmmakers, capturing the nation's current aspirations and needs through diverse forms such as feature films, documentaries, and short films, should not rely on commercial entities for support. They believe that only a national institution like Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy can meet these expectations. They also expressed hopes that films would be showcased regularly across the Academy's district branches.
"We are shocked to see that the new draft ordinance has removed the 'Film' section from the previous 'Drama and Film' sub-division. We strongly protest this and demand that a separate film division be established," the signatories said.
Films have been part of the Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy since its inception. Based on this tradition and historical significance, removing the section from the Academy is unacceptable, they added.
At a time when the entire nation is united in rebuilding and reforming the country following the student-led mass uprising, films—one of the key branches of the arts—can best represent this new renaissance. Therefore, rather than excluding the section from the Academy, the government should establish a distinct film division, they urged.
Notable signatories include Nurul Alam Atique, N Rashed Chowdhury, Akram Khan, Shabnam Ferdousi, Tokon Thakur, Noman Robin, Wahid Tareq, Prasun Rahman, Redoan Rony, Khijir Hayat Khan, Palash Rasul, Krishnendu Chattopadhyay, Sadia Khalid Reeti, Zakia Bari Mamo, Rawnak Hasan, Deepak Suman, Shohel Mondol, Nahida Sharmin (Shormi Mala), Abdullah Al Sentu, Tanvir Ahmed, and Nasir Ali Mamun amongst many others.
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