Published: 09:09 AM, 06 May 2026
Surshaptak leads a cultural triumph in welcoming 1433
On Saturday (May 2, 2026), the auditorium of the National Theatre Hall at Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy came alive with vibrant performances as music institution Surshaptak organized a colorful celebration marking the farewell of Bengali Year 1432 and the welcome of 1433. The event’s Chief Guest was Cultural Affairs Minister Nitai Roy Chowdhury, who emphasized the power of culture in his speech. He stated that just as weapons are needed to resist physical attacks, the most powerful weapon against cultural degradation is the nation’s rich and healthy cultural heritage. He reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to strengthening traditional cultural practices across the country to counter negative influences. He also announced grand nationwide celebrations for both Rabindra Jayanti on May 8, including at Shilaidaha in Kushtia, and Nazrul Jayanti on May 25, with key events planned in Trishal, Mymensingh.
The event was presided over by Ekushey Padak-winning renowned singer Ferdous Ara, founder and chairman of Surshaptak. Special guests included State Minister for Cultural Affairs Ali Nawaz Mahmud Khayem, Agriculture Ministry Secretary Rafiqul E. Mohammed, Managing Director & CEO of United Commercial Bank PLC (UCB) Mohammad Mamdudur Rashid, and Managing Director of Social Marketing Company (SMC) Taslim Uddin Khan.
Also present were Chairman of Prokriti O Jibon Foundation Mukit Majumder Babu, Director General of Shilpakala Academy Rezauddin Stalin, Executive Director of CDF Sajjad Hossain, and Chief Engineer of the Public Works Department Khalekuzzaman Chowdhury, among other distinguished guests.
In her welcome speech, Ferdous Ara highlighted that since its establishment in 2000, Sursaptak has been tirelessly working to promote pure and healthy cultural practices. She noted that the primary aim of the event is to spread the roots of Bangladeshi music and culture among the younger generation.
The cultural segment featured a captivating solo performance by Ferdous Ara, alongside performances by celebrated artists including Abida Sultana, Khurshed Alam, Rafiqul Alam, Anima Roy, Konal, and Jhilik. Teachers and students of Sursaptak performed a fusion of the national anthem, Nazrul songs, and classical music, leaving the audience spellbound.
Dance performances were presented by artists from Projonmo –A Centre for Performing Arts. The event’s media partner was Channel i, while United Commercial Bank PLC (UCB) and Social Marketing Company (SMC) extended their support as sponsors.
>>AA Emran Emon
