Indigenous Cultural Festival in Rangamati begins

9 April 2013, 18:00 PM

UPDATED 9 April 2013, 22:15 PM

Shantimoy Chakma, Rangamati

The rich cultures of the indigenous people have enriched the collective culture of Bangladesh. Photo: Star Jum Aesthetic Council (JAC), a Chittagong Hill Tracts based cultural organisation in Rangamati, has arranged a festival at the premises of Rangamati Small Ethnic Cultural Institute in the town. At the inaugural session last Thursday, Nirupa Dewan, member of National Human Right Commission, was the chief guest. Advocate Mihir Baran Chakma, president of JAC, was in the chair. Cultural personality Gonga Manik, Longan Mro and Romoni Mohan Chakma also spoke on the occasion. Speakers were of the view that everyone has to come forward and extend cooperation in preserving the indigenous cultures for the interest of enriching the national culture. Expressing concern over the present condition of indigenous people, speakers said that this is a critical juncture, as their political, social and economic rights have not established yet. Every ethnic community has distinct culture and language. The rich cultures of the indigenous people have enriched the collective culture of Bangladesh. So, it must be conserved and government should pay special attention toward the indigenous people for their betterment, they said. JAC has been playing a significant role in upholding the age-long traditions and cultures of the Jumma people. On the occasion of Biju Festival, which will be celebrated from April 12 to 14 by the indigenous people of the hills, JAC has arranged the cultural event. To mark the festival, an elaborate programme has been chalked out by JAC including staging of plays, renditions of indigenous songs, art competition and dance. The festival ended last Saturday.