Cultural Affairs Advisor Mostafa Sarwar Faruqui today spoke at a press conference at Chattogram Circuit House. Photo: BSS

CHATTOGRAM, May 19, 2025 (BSS) - Cultural Affairs Advisor Mostafa Sarwar Faruqui has announced that Zia Memorial Museum will be transformed into a full-fledged one.
 
“Since it is a Zia Memorial Museum, the memories of 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 said. 

The Cultural Advisor said these at a press conference at Chattogram Circuit House here today.

Secretary to the Ministry of Cultural Affairs Md. Mofidur Rahman and Deputy Commissioner of Chattogram Farida Khanam were present.
 
Faruki said various initiatives are being taken for the Zia Museum which remained closed for the last 16 years. He also informed that the budget of the museum has been doubled since he took charge.

Talking to journalists after visiting the museum the advisor highlighted the government's focus on cultural activities.

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

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

“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 said.
 
Highlighting the heritage of Chattogram, Cultural Advisor Mustafa Sarwar Faruqui mentioned that "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.”

Faruki emphasized the importance of showcasing the local events without any government assistance. He said Jabbarer Boli khela and Sampan Baich are elements of country's cultural heritage.

The advisor said the Sampan is a most glorious symbol of Chattogram heritage. Just like yellow taxis of New York City. Culture of Chattogram cannot be imagined without 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 added.