Cultural Affairs Minister speaks at Artists' Conference held at Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy's National Art Gallery Auditorium, Dhaka. Photo : BSS

DHAKA, July 12, 2026 (BSS)- Cultural Affairs Minister Nitai Roy Chowdhury today called for extending Nazrul Year programmes to the grassroots to inspire the younger generation with the secular and humanistic ideals of National Poet Kazi Nazrul Islam.

He made the call while addressing an "Artists' Conference" and views-exchange meeting as the chief guest at the National Art Gallery Auditorium of Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy here.

The minister announced that the Ministry of Cultural Affairs would provide all possible assistance for the welfare and medical treatment of financially insolvent and ailing artistes, adding that the government would always stand by them.

State Minister for Cultural Affairs Ali Newaz Mahmood Khyom attended the programme as the special guest, among others. 

The event was organised by Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy with the patronage of the Ministry of Cultural Affairs.

Cultural Affairs Secretary Kaniz Moula chaired the programme.

Director General of Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy Rezauddin Stalin delivered the welcome address while Academy Secretary Mohammad Zakir Hossain offered the vote of thanks.