Prominent theatre troupe Dhaka Padatik is set to stage the 38th production of its acclaimed historical drama “Trial of Surya Sen” on July 20 at the Experimental Theatre Hall of Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy (BSA).
Mustafa Zaman has stepped down from his role as the director of the Fine Arts Department at the Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy (BSA), marking another major leadership change at the country’s premier state-run cultural institution.
The featured short films are: “In Another World” by Konok Khondokar, “Telapoka” by Al-Amin Hossain, “Hudai Miss” by Zahedul Haque, “Homunculus” by Ibne Noor Rakib, “Soulmate” by Adil Imam, “Cha Chai” by Sheikh Kourashani, “Louk” by Mahmuda Sultana, “For Sale” by Fazle Rabbi, “On the Contrary” by Imtiaz Hossain, and “Ishpait” by Abir Ferdous.
More than just a home for the arts, it has long been a custodian of collective memory, responsible for shaping a culturally enriched, humane Bangladesh, rooted in its historical context. Despite its undeniable impact in preserving traditions, amplifying artistic expression, and cultivating national identity, the institution has long been a target for political manipulation, corruption, and political parties’ quests to control the cultural conscience of the country.
The festival received an overwhelming response, with 322 film submissions from across the country. After careful consideration by the selection committee, 89 films were chosen for screening—60 fictional shorts and 29 documentaries. These films were selected based on their artistic merit, storytelling prowess, and relevance to contemporary social issues.
Multiple theatre troupes claim they applied to book shows during these “reserved” slots — and were denied. When the list of reservations became public, the frustration spilled onto social media. On the Facebook group “Theatre Connection,” theatre activist Zubair Zahid posted a blunt question: “What kind of artistic practice requires 54 working days across three auditoriums?”
Farooki declared that this year’s New Year celebrations would bring together not just Bengali citizens, but also 27 ethnic communities from across the country. “Diversity is our most powerful and beautiful asset,” he said.
Classical music and dance are among the most refined expressions of human culture, representing profound dedication, beauty, and tradition. In an effort to further promote and preserve these distinguished art forms, the Music, Dance, and Recitation Department of Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy will be hosting a four-day “Shastriya Sangeet O Nritya Utsab” (Classical Music and Dance Festival).
Among the notable schedules, the "Sixth National Sculpture Exhibition" will run until January 20, while the month-long exhibition titled "2024: Oi Nutoner Keton Ore" will feature posters, paintings, photography, videography, and cartoons and conclude on January 17. Additionally, the National Pitha Festival will be held on the Academy grounds from January 24 to February 1.
This December, the country is set to come alive with an extraordinary lineup of cultural festivities, organized by Shilpakala Academy to mark the country's month of victory. From Qawwali performances to theatre festivals, the month-long celebration promises something for everyone. These events, held across districts and major cities, aim to bring art and culture to the public, making them accessible to all.
The statement presented arguments in support of this demand, signed by filmmakers, producers, cinematographers, editors, sound designers, film critics, researchers, teachers, film workers and organizers, actors, musicians, and photographers.
In the spirit of post-July Revolution rejuvenation, Shilpakala Academy seeks to reinvigorate cultural expressions across all social layers. With the theme “In fear, we falter; in defiance, we are Bangladesh,” the festival will run from November 1 to November 7 at Mukto Moncho in Suhrawardy Udyan in the capital.
BSA's initiatives in theatre, music, and visual arts have proven to be effective tools for bridging divides in Bangladesh's politically charged environment. The academy's diverse programming speaks to a wide range of Bangladeshis, although often failing to transcend party affiliations and ideological differences.
In honour of Lalon's 134th death anniversary on October 17, the Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy has organised a three-day festival to celebrate his legacy. A press conference detailing the event will take place today at 3:00pm in the National Theatre Hall seminar room.
Sources at Shilpakala Academy confirmed that since the student-led protests, army personnel have been stationed in various rooms of the National Theatre Hall, making it impossible to allocate spaces for events or rehearsals. However, as conditions have improved, and following requests from cultural groups and organisations, the hall and two rehearsal rooms will now be available for theatre performances and rehearsals, albeit under strict conditions.
Financial irregularities of the past must be properly investigated
On Monday (August 12), Lucky submitted his resignation to the Ministry of Cultural Affairs, as confirmed by Salahuddin Ahmed, Secretary of the Shilpakala Academy. The resignation was submitted via WhatsApp, the secretary informed The Daily Star.
The central theme of this year’s biennale is 'Foreigners Everywhere', providing a platform for global dialogue and artistic exploration.
In a bid to revive that nostalgia, Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy (BSA) arranged a variety of programmes, including discussions and puppetry shows marking World Puppetry Day on March 21.
