CHATTOGRAM,  May 19, (V7N)– Cultural Affairs Advisor Mostafa Sarwar Faruqui announced plans to transform the Zia Memorial Museum into a comprehensive institution dedicated to preserving the legacy of Ziaur Rahman.

"Since it is a Zia Memorial Museum, the memories of the entire life of Ziaur Rahman will be preserved in this museum. This is a time-consuming process. Research on Ziaur Rahman's biography needs to be conducted, and a curator should be appointed to properly inform visitors about the museum," he stated.

The Cultural Advisor made these remarks during a press conference held at the Chattogram Circuit House today.

Secretary to the Ministry of Cultural Affairs Md. Mofidur Rahman and Deputy Commissioner of Chattogram Farida Khanam were also present at the event.

Faruqui informed that various initiatives are being undertaken for the Zia Museum, which had remained closed for the past 16 years. He also disclosed that the museum's budget has been doubled since he assumed office.

Following his visit to the museum, the advisor spoke to journalists, emphasizing the government's focus on promoting cultural activities.

"We are a government of few days. Our main focus is to work on big areas of culture," he said.

"This year, we have arranged the biggest New Year celebration after independence. Eid celebrations were held on the moon night, and Buddhist Purnima was also celebrated most auspiciously," he added.

"The main reason for this is that the culture of Bangladesh should become the culture of all Bangladeshis, not specific groups. We are working towards that goal," he emphasized.

Highlighting the cultural heritage of Chattogram, Cultural Advisor Mustafa Sarwar Faruqui noted, "Jabbarer Boli Khela is a significant part of the country's culture. When you think of Chattogram, Jabbarer Boli Khela comes to mind. From next year, the Ministry of Culture will be associated with Jabbarer Boli Khela and Sampan Baich."

Faruqui stressed the importance of showcasing local events without relying on government assistance, recognizing Jabbarer Boli Khela and Sampan Baich as integral elements of the country's cultural heritage.

The advisor described the Sampan as a "most glorious symbol of Chattogram heritage," akin to the yellow taxis of New York City, stating that the culture of Chattogram is inseparable from the Sampan.

"Therefore, I have tasked the Shilpakala Academy to prepare a list of the festivals. Once the list is completed, we will include them in our calendar and provide support from Dhaka," he concluded.

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