Commemorating 41 years of Bangladesh Group Theatre Federation

Today marks the 41st founding anniversary of Bangladesh Group Theatre Federation, the central organisation for all theatre troupes across the country. On the occasion, Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy has organised a discussion at the seminar room of their National Theatre Hall.

Bangladesh Group Theatre Federation was founded on this day in 1980. At present, they have 346 members.

The theme of this year's programme is '50 years of group theatre practice in Bangladesh'. Noted personalities, such as Mamunur Rashid, Ramendu Majumdar, Ataur Rahman, and Nasiruddin Yousuff, will speak at the discussion, after which there will be a cultural programme.

The Daily Star spoke to Kamal Bayezid, General Secretary of Bangladesh Group Theatre Federation, on the occasion. "Group theatre has been practiced in Bangladesh over the last 50 years; meanwhile, our federation has completed 41 years. This is a great achievement in the history of our theatre arena. Today's programme will be memorable for us," he said.

"We have experienced both successes and failures, but over the last 41 years, we have come a long way. It is a great accomplishment," added Ramendu Majumdar.

"After the country's independence, we were only a handful of young people performing in theatrical productions. I dedicated myself to the world of theatre. I tried my best to lead the federation in a positive way when I was the chairman," said Mamunur Rashid.

Freedom fighter Nasiruddin Yousuff, the founder of Dhaka Theatre and Bangladesh Gram Theatre, has also been the chairman of Bangladesh Group Theatre Federation. "Through our efforts, theatre plays in Bangladesh have come so far; Bangladesh Group Theatre Federation plays an important role in it," he said. "The federation's members have been my teammates. I convey my best wishes and love to them."