90th birth anniversary of Nelson Mandela celebrated

July 18 marked the 90th birth anniversary of Nelson Mandela. On the occasion, Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy (BSA) organised a discussion and a cultural programme in association with the Wrishiz Shilpi Gosthi at the Department of Dance and Music, Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy. The programme kicked off at about 5:45 pm. A group performance by Wrishiz marked the opening of the event. Artistes rendered the song Mandela Mandela Nelson Mandela written by Asaduzzaman Noor. A discussion followed. National professor Kabir Chowdhury was present as the chief guest. Assaduzzaman Noor and Golam Kuddus, general secretary of Sommilito Shangskritik Jote were the special guests at the programme. Among others, Habibullah Khan, the first ambassador of Bangladesh to South Africa (1995- 96) and Mofidul Haque were also present. The welcome speech was given by Fakir Alamgir. The discussion was presided over by Bhuiyan Shafiqul Islam, director general, BSA. The speakers at the discussion focused on Mandela and his works, while others mentioned anecdotes involving this towering personality.Kabir Chowdhury recited a poem titled Nelson Mandela, that he wrote when he met Mandela.Recalling Mandela, Chowdhury said, “When we went to meet him we didn't even have an appointment. However when he heard that we were from Bangladesh he cordially gave us time. Mandela has a soft corner for the people of Bangladesh and I found him to be a man of very great personality and morals.” Speaking of Mandela, Habibullah Khan said, “When I first met Mandela, I found him to be very friendly, specially after he heard that I was from Bangladesh." “Many Bangladeshi doctors work in South Africa. Mandela said that the medicoes were very kind and helpful. I felt really happy when I heard these words," recalled Habibullah. The cultural programme comprised of song, recitation and a documentary screening. Artistes of Wrishiz and Kranti Shilpi Gosthi performed songs. Recitations were presented by Shahdat Hossaion (Gorad bhangar shongramira jago written by Mahbubul Alam Chowdhury); Belayet Hossain (Mandela Tomar Jonyo penned by Zahid Mostafa) and Rafiqul Islam (Neel Kontho of Premendra Mitra).Fakir Alamgir performed five songs including -- Chokh duti jeno durbin, Kalo kalo manusher deshey, Naam taar chhilo, Ora amader gaan gaiety dey na. The event wrapped up with the screening of a documentary on Nelson Mandela.