Mahua Utsab at Jahangirnagar University

Discussants speak at the Mahua Utsab

'Mahua Utsab' which was initiated by the late Selim Al Deen was celebrated at the Jahangirnagar University (JU) on April 20. The department of Drama and Dramatics, JU organised the festival in cooperation with Prothom Alo Bondhu Shabha.
JU Vice Chancellor Dr. Mohammad Muniruzzaman inaugurated the festival near the Shaheed Minar on JU campus. Poet Mohammad Rafiq; Nasiruddin Yousuff, president of the Sammilito Sanskritik Jote; Proctor Dr. Syed M Kamrul Ahsan; Dr. Afsar Ahmed, Dr. Lutfor Rahman and associate Professor Rashid Harun spoke on the occasion.
Sanowar Hossein, chairman of the Drama and Dramatics Department, JU presided over the programme. The daylong programme included reading from Selim Al Deen's works, musical performance and discussion on the significance of flora and trees in our culture.
Mahua flowers and the tree hold a special place in the local indigenous traditions. Adivasis use the flowers to make a special drink. Parts of the Mahua tree are used for medicinal purposes.
Selim Al Deen started the celebration on JU campus to generate interest in the indigenous culture.