Information and Broadcasting Minister Zahir Uddin Swapon spoke at a book launching ceremony at Bangla Academy this afternoon. Photo: PID

DHAKA, May 21, 2026 (BSS) - Information and Broadcasting Minister Zahir Uddin Swapon has called upon the new generation to have a clear understanding of the country’s political and social fabrics and trend, and history alongside practicing patriotism.

“Understanding the historical and political context makes it possible to properly evaluate any creative work,” he told a book launching ceremony at Bangla Academy this afternoon.

First book by renowned vocalist and researcher Dr. Anima Roy, titled “Patriotic Consciousness in the Songs of the Five Lyric Poets” (Panchagitikobir Gane Swadeshchetana) published by Bangla Academy was launched on the occasion.

State Minister for Cultural Affairs Ali Newaz Mahmood Khyom spoke as the special guest at the programme hosted by cultural and musical organization Surbihar.

Bangla Academy director general Prof Mohammad Azam, Head of Department at the Government Music College Dr. Kamal Khalid and researcher Farzana Rashid Brownia also spoke.

Quoting from The Prophet by Kahlil Gibran, the information minister said, “Love or emotion has an eternal definition. Whether it is love for one’s country, humanity, nature, or God — love essentially recognizes none but itself.”

He noted that ordinary listeners often become confused in distinguishing romantic love from love of nature in songs, but the fundamental essence of all forms of love is one and the same.