Govt working to preserve Abbasuddin’s immortal legacy, promote folk culture: Cultural Minister
Staff Correspondent
Cultural Affairs Minister Nitai Roy Chowdhury declared on Tuesday evening that the government is actively working to preserve the immortal creations of legendary vocal artist and "Emperor of Bhawaiya" Abbasuddin Ahmed while advancing national folk culture.
The minister made the statement as the chief guest at a musical event titled "Oki Gariyal Bhai," organized at the Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy in the capital to commemorate the 125th birth anniversary of Abbasuddin Ahmed.
Paying rich tribute to the late maestro, Minister Nitai Roy Chowdhury highlighted how Abbasuddin introduced the soil, rivers, and livelihoods of northern Bengal to the global stage through his iconic voice. He noted that while many rivers across the country have dried up over time, they remain immortalized through Abbasuddin's musical renditions.
Emphasizing the responsibility to pass down such legacies to future generations, the minister announced that the Cultural Affairs Ministry will launch a nationwide, large-scale Bhawaiya festival.
Special guest, Cultural Affairs Ministry Secretary Yasmin Begum affirmed that the appeal of Abbasuddin's compositions remains timeless, reiterating the ministry's commitment to protecting all elements of Bangladeshi folk heritage.
Eminent vocalist Prof. Dr. Nashid Kamal presented the keynote address on the life, work, and philosophy of Abbasuddin Ahmed. She highlighted his close artistic association with National Poet Kazi Nazrul Islam, noting Abbasuddin's key role in inspiring Nazrul to compose Islamic devotional songs.
The discussion session was also addressed by BNP National Executive Committee Cultural Secretary Ashraf Uddin Ahmed Uzzal.
Presided over by Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy Director General and Joint Secretary to the Ministry of Cultural Affairs Moha. Harun-ur-Rashid, the event was attended by ministry officials, artists, researchers, and cultural activists. The discussion concluded with performances of Abbasuddin's timeless songs by renowned artists. The program was organized by Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy with support from the Ministry of Cultural Affairs.
