S.M. Sultan Sangrahashala yet to open doors

The gallery has 41 paintings by Sultan (inset), including 13 originals and 28 reproductions, but is yet to open its doors to the public.

Though five years have passed, Sultan Sangrahshala is yet to open its doors. Despite a plan to exhibit priceless paintings by master artist S.M. Sultan, shortage of staff has stymied the proposal.
Locals have expressed their ire at not being able to view the paintings and have demanded that the Sangrahashala be opened as soon as possible.
Currently, the institution is run by the Narail deputy commissioner's office. Not much progress has been made, though the Sangrahashala was inaugurated on August 10, 2003 by the then information minister M. Tarikul Islam.
District administration sources said that in June 2003, 10 people were appointed to administer the centre. However, as they did not receive any salary, they staged an exit from their work place.
On February 24, 2008 the then adviser to the caretaker government Rasheda K. Chowdhury gave hope that the centre would be opened soon. According to her proposal, the Shilpakala Academy handed over the responsibility to two officials; but it is yet to be translated into action.
DC office sources said that the art gallery has 41 paintings by Sultan, including 13 originals and 28 digital reproductions. The masterpiece is a 41 ft painting, titled "Evolution of Civilisation." In addition there are some memorabilia such as personal attire, books and musical instruments used by the artist. Everyday hundreds of viewers, including artists and intellectuals come to view Sultan's paintings. However, they return disappointed when they see that the centre remains closed, said locals.
Professor Munshi Hafizur Rahman, member secretary of S.M. Sultan Foundation, has demanded that the centre be opened at the earliest.
When contacted, acting deputy commissioner, M. Jahangir Alam said that they are in touch with the higher echelons of the Ministry of Culture so that the imbroglio can be resolved.