Film plays as powerful medium to change society's mindset: Andaleeve
Staff Correspondent
Information and Broadcasting Minister Andaleeve Rahman has described films as a powerful medium for changing the mindset of society and people.
He made the remarks as the chief guest at a programme organised at the Bangladesh Film Development Corporation (BFDC) auditorium on Wednesday marking 'Film Directors Day 2026'.
The Bangladesh Film Directors Association organised the event.
Andaleeve said, "There was a time when the messages conveyed through cinema might have been seen through our eyes, but they became deeply etched in our hearts."
"Every film should have its own characters and a clear message. Every film made by talented filmmakers, including renowned filmmaker Amjad Hossain, carried social and humanitarian messages," he said.
Calling for the production of quality films in the days ahead, the information minister said the government wants to work together in the future to bring more development of films.
"With the passage of time, the realities of society have changed. Today, many young people are becoming involved in the devastating impact of drugs, which is causing enormous damage to society," he said.
"Besides, there are various forms of discrimination in society. Our filmmakers will play a leading role in guiding society out of these crises through film as a powerful medium," he added.
Mentioning the current government's sincerity in developing the film industry, Andaleeve said, "If we all work together, we will be able to take Bangladeshi cinema back to its old and glorious position, Insha Allah."
Speaking as a special guest, State Minister for Information and Broadcasting Yasser Khan Choudhury said, "Compared with the golden days of the past, our film industry may not have developed to the level it should have."
"Therefore, the government is working not only to develop BFDC but also to revitalise and improve the entire film industry," he added.
"Prime Minister Tarique Rahman is highly sincere about this and has instructed that a comprehensive development plan be presented within a specific timeframe," he continued.
The state minister said the development of BFDC would be ensured in coordination with senior figures of the film industry and the relevant departments.
Prime Minister's Adviser on Information and Broadcasting Zahed Ur Rahman said at the event that the current government and the prime minister are highly interested in restoring the uniqueness and glory of the film sector.
He said, "We are perhaps the last generation to have grown up during the best periods of Bangla cinema."
"To overcome the current crisis in the film sector and build its modern infrastructure, the government will prepare a comprehensive roadmap through discussions with stakeholders," he added.
Renowned playback singer Sabina Yasmin and prominent media personality Faridur Reza Sagar were given special honours at the event.
Expressing her feelings, singer Sabina Yasmin said, "As a child, I used to record at BFDC every day.
"Thousands of timeless songs were created here. I have been able to become Sabina Yasmin today because of the film directors," she added.
Besides, distinguished personalities and filmmakers were honoured for their outstanding contributions to the film industry.
Noted Film Personality and Freedom Fighter Masud Parvez (Sohel Rana), renowned Film Director A J Mintu, Producer and Actor Kazi Hayat, Film Personality and Freedom Fighter Delwar Jahan Jhantu, Film Directors Dr Matin Rahman and Mashiuddin Shaker were present, among others.
President of the Bangladesh Film Directors Association Shahin Suman delivered the welcome address.
Eminent film directors, producers, actors, technicians and cultural personalities of the country were also present at the event, along with the association's Secretary General Shahin Kabir Tutul.
BFDC Managing Director Masuma Rahman Tani was also present.
