Project of compilation of encyclopedia in Bangla, English to be finished in 2002

The Asiatic Society of Bangladesh (ASB) observed its 48th founding anniversary yesterday, reports BSS.

Dr A F Salahuddin Ahmed, an eminent historian and former Professor of History, University of Dhaka, delivered the foundation day lecture on "Quest for Peace and Harmony in South Asia" in the auditorium of the society.

Prof M Harunur Rashid, president of the society, presided while Dr Sajahan Miah, general secretary of the society, gave the address of welcome.

A large number of scholars academicians, members of the society, university teachers and elite of the city attended the function.

Dr Salahuddin Ahmed in his lecture dealt at length on the rise of Hindu-Muslim discord and the prospects of peace in the region in its historical perspective.

Prof Ahmed observed that the people of South Asia share a common and indivisible cultural heritage, a product of over thousand years of historical development.

Prof Harunur Rashid in his presidential address said that the fundamentals of all religions were the same and they kept love of mankind above all other things. It is orthodoxy that led to hatred and dissension. If all religions pursued those fundamental precepts, hatred and dissension would dissolve yielding place to love for fellow beings, he opined.