Cultural Affairs Adviser Mostofa Sarwar Farooki. Photo : Collected

DHAKA, Aug 28, 2025 (BSS) - Cultural Affairs Adviser Mostofa Sarwar Farooki has called for promoting the indigenous culture.

"Before a nation is colonized physically, it is first colonized intellectually," he said in his verified Facebook post.

For decades, this intellectual and cultural colonialism kept the creative spirit of Bangladesh outside formal state recognition, he said.
 
"Glorious traditions and artistes - who have shaped our identity and inspired generations - were rarely granted the celebration they deserved," he added.

But in the post-2024 era, this tide is beginning to turn, he said, adding that in a landmark move, the cabinet has declared Lalon Shah's death anniversary as an 'A' category national day - a long-overdue recognition of his enduring impact on Bangladeshi identity and philosophy. 

Alongside this, discussions have begun around recognizing other vital figures, including visionary artist SM Sultan, whose works remain some of the most powerful portrayals of rural Bengal and the human spirit, he said.

Importantly, the meeting also discussed the big cultural phenomena that have shaped post-independence Bangladesh. "Humayun Ahmed is an example. I think, like him, no one in our recent history has had a greater impact on popular consciousness, literature and television," he added.

"The time has also come to recognize the music that has shaped our 'sound-scape' for generations. Icons like Ayub Bachchu, whose voice echoes across every corner of the country, are not merely entertainers - they are cultural torchbearers," he said. 

By officially honoring these figures, the state is moving beyond the narrow frame of Rabindra-Nazrul, toward a broader, more inclusive cultural vision, he said.
 
Such celebration builds confidence, fosters national unity and projects a bold, authentic identity to the world, he said.