"The Living Heritage of Bangladesh " by Srimal Fernando

The Living Heritage of Bangladesh

Monday, 16 April 2012 08:43 ( Refer Daily Mirror Life pg  C 2 )

By Srimal Fernando

Bangladesh is unique, not just for its most striking natural wonders but for the veritable treasure lying in the diversity of its rich cultural heritage. It is bordered by India, Burma and by Bay of Bengal. Bengali culture is one of the oldest cultures of South Asia. The Bangladeshi people strongly preserve their national values; they honor the sacred traditions and have loyalty to their culture. The magic of the crystal clear mighty river network with more than seven hundred branches of the river are the natural asset of this country. Farming in the country is an activity that goes back to the very beginning of human settlement. A rice-based farming system forms the backbone of Bangladesh agricultural sector. The name Bangladesh in Bengali means "Country of Bengal". After declaring independence in 1971, the Bangladeshi Bengali’s regained their national identity and their cultural heritage. The country celebrated more than four decades of independence on 26 March with a series of events such as military parades and mass displays involving school children, musicians and dancers from all parts of the country. One of the towering figures of the twentieth century and a strident campaigner for Bangladeshi independence was the founder of Bangladesh Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman. His dream of the countrie’s independence and self rule was realized on 26 March 1971.The national anthem of Bangladesh “Amar Shonar Bangla” or “My Golden Bengal” was written and composed by Rabindranath Tagore. The capital city of Dhaka located on the banks Buri-ganga River is dotted with attractive buildings, shopping malls and many historical sites. Many historical edifices like Lalbagh Fort, built in 1678 by son of Mughal Emperor Aurangazeb, University of Dhaka , Ahsan Manzil, Shahid Minar  the Symbol of Bengali nationalism ,the palace of the Dhaka Nawab Family, the 17^th centaury Sixty Dome Mosque and the Parliament are located at different corners of the city. The city is also known as the Rickshaw capital of the world, where low-cost and non-polluting cycle rickshaws are one of the major modes of transportation for thousands of people in the city. Luckily, the country’s most amazing architectural marvels of  yesteryear is well preserved in the historical sites around the major cities of Chittagong, Sylhet, Rajshahi, Khulna, Barisal and Rangpur. The countries diverse landscape is rich with wildlife and natural beauty. One of the world’s most striking natural wonders Sundarbans mangrove forest is the home of the famous Royal Bengal tiger. The country has produced a large number of leading writers, intellectuals’ playwrights and poets. Among the most famous prolific contributor of the 20th century to the field of Bengali literature are Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore and Kazi Nazrul Islam. The country is well supplied with museums and art galleries and offers a wide range of cultural events. Bengali New Year celebration known as Pohela Baishakhis  the  most popular colorful  cultural festivals in the country is celebrated annually around 14 th April.

 With a long history of yarn spinning, weaving and fashion design, Bangladesh is one of the leading centers in South Asia for fabric and textile manufacturing.

Watching a couple of Bengali films is certainly one of the best ways of tapping into the country's culture. Most cinemas in the country show Bollywood movies. Homegrown Dhally wood films have made their mark on the film world. After a brief spell the country’s film makers enjoy a renaissance with some brilliant films being made by younger film makers of the 70s. A River Called Titas or Titash Ekti Nadir Naam in Bengali in 1973 was the first film produced after the countries independence by Bangladeshi film director Ritwik Ghatak. The famous stages in the countries theatre still bear this rich history of Indian Bengali Theater. The country is home to a diverse array of music and dance styles from its various geographic regions. The music and dance of the country are of a blend of Asian and native cultures and are unique in Indian sub-continent.

The musical communities in the country are well versed with raga, talas and the melodic modes that have rhythmical notes. Traditional Bengali music is at the heart of the countries culture and its roots can be felt in Indian sub-continent. Nowadays both Hindustani, Carnatic, Qawwali and Ghazal music has become integral part of the culture of Delhi and Dhaka. The traditional music in Bengal shares the perspectives of the Indian sub-continent. Bengali poetry is one of the most beautiful in the world. The Bengali classical music is one of the most elaborate and inspiring artistic forms found in the region. The music is enriched with Jari, Shari, Bhatiali, Rabindra Sangeet, Nazrul Sangeet , Murshidi and other types of folk songs.

Both ethnic and modern dances are featured in the dance festivals in Bangladesh.  All dances are structured around common emotions such as happiness, anger, disgust, fear, sorrow, courage, compassion, wonder and serenity .There are number of dance  styles but the most popular dance styles are Brita, Chaau, Tusu, Santhal, and Gambhira. Pop and rock, along with Hindi film music, have also gained considerable popularity among the young Bengali’s. The countries  music and dance are considered national treasures whose rhythmic cadence and melodies echo the indigenous flavor; it has become the flagship of Bengali  musical genres. Art is considered one of the defining features of the countries culture.

Bangladeshi   culture is both distinctive and varied a land where Bangladeshis are proud of their heritage and very passionate about being Bengali.