Md. Yeasir Arafat

Leisure is one of the most coveted phases of human life. Our relentless pursuit in daily life often seems to revolve around attaining a fragment of respite. In the midst of a hectic professional routine, we long for a moment of tranquillity—a time when our suppressed aspirations and latent desires can take form. Many choose to travel across countries during their leisure, while others keep themselves engaged with their hobbies. However, how enriching would it be if we could make this leisure more meaningful by immersing ourselves in the practice of our indigenous culture, literature, and heritage?

The culture of Bangladesh is a custodian of a thousand-year-old legacy. It embodies the history, lifestyle, traditions, customs, folk culture, music, dance, theatre, literature, and various other cultural elements of the Bengali people. Our indigenous culture serves as the emblem of our national identity, distinguishing us on the global stage. Bangladesh’s literary sphere is equally illustrious. From Charyapada to the timeless works of Rabindranath Tagore, Kazi Nazrul Islam, Jasim Uddin, and Jibanananda Das, our literature continues to reflect the richness of our heritage and traditions. Likewise, the folk music of rural Bengal—Pala Gaan, Jari-Sari, Bhatiali, Baul songs, Gambhira, and Puthi recitations—constitutes an inseparable part of our cultural fabric. Yet, due to the influence of urbanisation and an increasing dependency on technology, these priceless cultural elements are gradually fading into obscurity.

If we fail to engage in any creative or cultural pursuits during our leisure, a sense of loneliness and inferiority may consume us. Research indicates that the absence of creative engagement or cultural practice in leisure time can lead to depression and mental exhaustion. Hence, engaging in indigenous literature, music, drama, and folk culture not only provides mental stimulation but also ensures the preservation of our heritage. For instance, if an individual dedicates their leisure in collecting, documenting, and promoting rural folk music, they contribute to the conservation of an invaluable cultural legacy for future generations. Similarly, if one engages in theatre practice or explores the literary works of native authors, they not only enrich their intellectual faculties but also play a role in safeguarding indigenous culture.

Globalisation has imposed a significant influence of foreign culture on our indigenous traditions. Urbanisation, excessive reliance on technology, and the blind imitation of Western culture in the name of modernity have pushed many traditional art forms towards extinction. There was a time when folk music performances, Puthi recitations, and stage dramas were common in rural Bengal. However, such practices are now gradually disappearing. A large proportion of the younger generation has become so engrossed in social media and digital entertainment that they remain largely ignorant of their own cultural heritage.

Under these circumstances, practising indigenous culture and literature during leisure will not only enhance our intellectual and creative faculties but also help revive fading traditions. It is our responsibility to introduce the younger generation to the significance of native culture. To foster an interest in indigenous literature, one can read the works of eminent Bengali authors, compose poetry, stories, or essays, and participate in literary discussion forums. In the realm of music and dance, the practice of Baul, Bhatiali, Nazrul Geeti, Rabindra Sangeet, Jari-Sari, and traditional folk dances can help sustain cultural vibrancy. Forming local theatre groups, staging plays, and reviving folk dramas can significantly contribute to cultural preservation. Additionally, practising rural handicrafts such as Nakshi Kantha embroidery, pottery, and Shola craft can aid in the promotion and expansion of these art forms. Collecting oral histories, folk tales, and historical anecdotes from elders and documenting them would serve as an invaluable contribution to cultural preservation.

Furthermore, modern technology can be harnessed to promote and safeguard indigenous culture. Social media platforms, such as, YouTube, Facebook, podcasts, digital archives, and mobile applications can be utilised to make folk culture, literature, and traditions more accessible. With the aid of technology, folk culture can be presented in an innovative manner. E-commerce platforms can help introduce Bangladeshi handicrafts and indigenous artwork to the global market. By integrating modern technology with indigenous culture, we can preserve, nurture, and elevate our cultural heritage on an international platform. In this way, we can simultaneously embrace modern technological advancements while ensuring the revival of our native traditions and cultural heritage. The recognition and empowerment of distinct cultural elements serve as a strength of economic development as well.

Bangladesh possesses an immense repository of indigenous culture, traditions, and heritage, which sets it apart from the rest of the world. This cultural identity is the foundation of our self-awareness. Neglecting it would mean severing our roots and weakening our heritage. Hence, leisure should not be regarded merely as a time for entertainment but should be used for intellectual and creative enrichment. Through the practice of native literature, music, theatre, and folk culture, we can safeguard our heritage and leave behind a rich cultural legacy for future generations. Therefore, it is imperative that we utilise our leisure wisely, ensuring that our culture, traditions, and heritage remain preserved and celebrated.

The writer is a, Undergraduate Student Department of Political Science University of Rajshahi, Bangladesh