Talking about valuing relationships on “Mullobodh Er Paathshala”

Aiming to stimulate the idea of values and positive change, Shuvashish Bhowmick, founder of father-son singing duo Baap Ka Beta, initiated the campaign, "Mullobodh Er Paathshala", which hosts live sessions with renowned celebrities, authors, and experts on the importance of morals and values. The sixth episode, titled "Can we value human relationships properly?" was held yesterday, featuring radio jockey Rifat Zibraan and actor Siam Ahmed.

The panel explored ideas as to whether or not we evaluate and respect relationships, ruin associations due to trivial reasons, and maintain relationships regardless of the give-and-take aspects of it, among many more.

Rifat Zibraan shared how he initially realised his passion for starting his profession. He talked about work-life balance in association with relationships.

 "If I were to sacrifice, I'd sacrifice work and not because of work. There's nothing bigger than life and relationships. I don't grind myself at work, nor do I believe in the concept of a 'true artist', who'd put aside freedom to work endlessly. For me, it would always be people over work," he shard.

 He said that one must never be too greedy, money can neither buy happiness nor is it the most important in order to ensure a fulfilling life and finally, no matter what, we cannot let people go because of our ego, be it our parents, friends, or lovers. He shared,  "I truly believe, whatever people give or do, they eventually get the deserved return."

Siam Ahmed discussed his childhood and the social diversities he underwent growing up. Speaking of relationships, he shared, "We grew up in a colony culture, commuted to school in a van, played cricket with senior brothers. Most importantly, in that setting, everybody's doors were always open for us," shared the actor.

While discussing workplace relationships he said that he is an easy-going person, who treats his juniors from the industry with love and affection. He realises that it is important to help people overcome fear, and develop their talents. Siam also shared lessons he learned from being an animal lover.

"My parrot and rabbit died in my arms and it occurred to me that people shouldn't take responsibilities of others if they cannot take care of them," he said.

When the matter of parent-children relationship surfaced, he said, "In my opinion, old homes should be exterminated and if people have the ability, they should adopt older people. If I ever have the ability, I would love to have few more senior citizens come live with us."

The Pencil Foundation is affiliated with this initiative as an outreach partner. The foundation works to develop a platform for young authors, poets, singers, photographers, reciters, and artists. People with this foundation are highly optimistic that this initiative will bring fruitful outcomes and bring significant impacts on society's perception.

In the coming days, "Mullobodh Er Paathshala" will be hosting more episodes on the development of moral values. People from all over the world can watch the episodes live on Baap Ka Beta's official Facebook page.

The author is a freelance journalist and a final year marketing & international business student at North South University. Email: iamsadiatahsin@gmail.com.