‘Use of Bangla, Bengali culture decreasing gradually’

Mentioning that celebration of Pahela Baishakh has increased over the years, Prominent Journalist Abdul Momen on Saturday said the use of Bangla and Bengali culture is gradually decreasing in the society.

The researcher came up with the remark while speaking at a programme arranged by Bangla Academy at its Rabindra Chattar marking the observation of the first day of Bangla New Year.

He said people here start preparing for the day one or two months ahead keeping 14 April in mind, not the first day of Baishakh.

Urging the need of Bangla in education and daily practices, Abul Momen also said fundamentalism has spread all over the society, as it has been silently working for over 30 years to strengthen its root here.

Mentioning the increasing use and practice of English language, he urged the need of strengthening the root of Bangla language and culture to fight against fundamentalism.

He also suggested using Bangla calendar in daily life as well as educational institutes.

Director General of Bangla Academy Prof Shamsuzzaman Khan said Pahela Baishakh observation can play a significant role against fundamentalism.

Presiding over the programme, Bangla Language Movement Activist Ahmed Rafik said New Year brings new hope of better days ahead.

Bangla New Year is related to the agriculture and culture of the country, he said adding that the celebration was originated from a movement of cultural freedom, reports UNB.

Students of Agargaon Government Music School presented the musical performance welcoming the Bangla New Year.