Prime Minister’s Political Adviser Zahir Uddin Swapon today emphasized the need for producing quality films and providing government policy support to revive Bangladesh’s declining cinema industry. Speaking as the chief guest at the inauguration of a weeklong film festival at historic Madhumita Hall in Motijheel, Swapon highlighted that cinema can help connect the new generation with Dhaka’s history, heritage, and culture.
The festival, organized by Dhaka South City Corporation (DSCC) under the ‘Hridoy e Dhaka-416’ programme, aims to showcase Dhaka’s 416-year history, heritage, and multicultural traditions to the younger generation. Fourteen notable Bangladeshi films will be screened free of charge until August 28.
Swapon noted that more than 850 cinema halls once operated across the country, but their number has declined significantly. He attributed this decline to the changing tastes and viewing habits of audiences, influenced by smartphones and digital multimedia. Therefore, he stressed the importance of producing quality films that consider audience tastes and demands, and called for government policy support.
State Minister for Cultural Affairs Ali Newaz Mahmood Khyom said the Ministries of Information and Broadcasting and Cultural Affairs would work together through a coordinated initiative to revitalize the film industry. He expressed optimism that Bangladesh’s cinema could see better days again by producing good films and thanked the DSCC for honoring film personalities and arranging free screenings.
DSCC Administrator and freedom fighter Md Abdus Salam, while chairing the programme, said cinema is deeply connected with Dhaka’s history and heritage. He noted that films have portrayed the country’s history, culture, movements, and struggles, including the Language Movement and Liberation War, across generations. The festival aims to highlight Dhaka’s glorious history and cultural heritage at home and abroad, and he urged residents to attend the screenings with their families.
The programme also honored prominent living and deceased film artists, directors, musicians, cinematographers, and journalists, along with historic cinema halls. Two films will be screened daily at 3pm and 6pm, free of charge, until August 28. Dhaka-7 constituency lawmaker Hamidur Rahman and Feni-1 constituency lawmaker Rafiqul Alam Majnu attended the programme as special guests.
The revival of Bangladesh’s cinema industry is significant as it not only preserves the nation’s cultural heritage but also provides a platform for storytelling that reflects the country’s history and values. By producing quality films and garnering government support, the industry can thrive and continue to inspire future generations.
