Proma marks 24th anniversary

Proma Abritti Sanghatan, a renowned recitation and elocution organisation of the port city, celebrated its 24th anniversary with a three-day colourful festival at District Shilpakala Academy premises in Chittagong city recently.

The unique event featured a discussion, performance of solo and group recitations by artistes from home and abroad, a procession, songs, self composed recitation of poems by eminent poets and a children's performance.

A colourful procession began from Shilpakala Academy. Brightly attired members of the organisation danced along to the beats of the dhol as the procession made its way through the city.

Cultural Affairs Secretary Dr Ranjit Kumar Biswas inaugurated the festival. Presided over by Proma Chief Rashed Hasan, the inaugural ceremony was addressed by eminent social scientist Dr. Anupam Sen, Indian Assistant High Commissioner to Chittagong Somnath Halder and renowned poet Helal Hafiz.

In his speech, Dr. Ranjit said, Proma in its 24 years has played a significant role in the country's cultural arena and created new recitation artistes every year.

Dr. Anupam Sen hoped Proma would continue to combat social anomalies through their cultural activities.

The second day's programme started with lighting candles and releasing fanus (paper lanterns). Later, Tagore artistes Shreyasi Rai and Shahariar Khaled rendered songs.