JnU Correspondent

Iranian Ambassador to Bangladesh Mansour Chavoshi expressed his optimism about the role of films in strengthening ties between the people of Bangladesh and Iran.

Speaking as a special guest at a three-day film festival held at Jagannath University on Tuesday, Chavoshi said: “Film is an industry that connects people worldwide through art. I believe this festival will bring the people of Bangladesh and Iran closer.”

He emphasized that the event would add a new dimension to cultural relations and play a significant role in fostering goodwill between the two nations.Highlighting the historical bond between Bangladesh and Iran, the ambassador noted the close connections between the people of Bangladesh and Iranian poets and writers.

He added: "This festival will further solidify the friendship between our countries and introduce Iranian culture to Bangladeshis."The ambassador also invited students, faculty, and the broader public to explore Iranian cinema, underscoring its artistic and cultural value.

Jagannath University Vice-Chancellor Professor Md Rezaul Karim served as the chief guest at the festival's opening and a discussion titled "Iran-Bangladesh Film Co-Production: Bridging Markets and Culture."The vice-chancellor remarked: “Iran and Bangladesh share numerous similarities in religious and cultural traditions. The simplicity, moral education, and humanitarian messages in Iranian films are a source of inspiration. Such festivals open doors for learning about the society, culture, and humanity of other nations, enriching the knowledge of students and teachers alike.”

Sayyid Reza Mir Mohammadi, cultural counsellor at the Iranian Cultural Centre, highlighted the power of film as a medium for showcasing a country’s societal and cultural narratives.

He said: “Iranian films are not just entertainment; they are educational tools. Their depiction of human struggles, life, and emotions has earned global acclaim.”

Professor Dr Sabina Sharmin, Treasurer of Jagannath University, thanked the Iranian Embassy for organizing the festival.

She said: “Iranian films beautifully portray social, cultural, and religious education. Our students have much to learn from them. Exposure to Iranian films will broaden students' perspectives and creativity.”

The festival features iconic Iranian films, including Majid Majidi's “The Children of Heaven”, “The Song of Sparrows”, and “The Colour of Paradise”; Abbas Kiarostami's “Taste of Cherry”; Saifullah “Dad's The Survivor”; and Ibrahim Hatami Kia's “Bodyguard”, which was screened at the opening event.