Cultural activities essential for building healthy society: DSCC Administrator

Cultural activities are essential for building a healthy and well-rounded society, Dhaka South City Corporation (DSCC) Administrator and freedom fighter Md Abdus Salam has said.

He said, music, poetry recitation and theatre play an important role in people's mental development and healthy living. Cultural activities should be promoted, particularly to keep the younger generation away from drug addiction and frustration and help build a humane and creative society.

He made the remarks while inaugurating the Cute Theatre Festival, organised to celebrate the 40th anniversary of Bangladesh Theatre, at Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy on Friday (November 13).

The DSCC administrator said, a fulfilling life could not be built without balancing all aspects of human existence. People need time for activities such as singing, listening to poetry recitations and watching theatre performances for their mental development. Cultural engagement is as important as other necessities of life, he added.

Highlighting the contributions of people from all walks of life, Abdus Salam said everyone's role must be recognised in building a beautiful and well-rounded society. He also stressed the significant contribution of sanitation workers, saying the consequences of a 10-day suspension of cleaning activities in Dhaka would be easily imaginable.

He called for ensuring equal rights and dignity for everyone in society.

Expressing concern over rising drug addiction and frustration among young people, Abdus Salam said a section of the younger generation was becoming addicted to drugs and suffering from frustration about their lives. He described the trend as a serious sign of social deterioration.

To overcome the situation, he urged young people to engage in music, poetry and theatre. He also said society had a responsibility to create opportunities for theatre practitioners to move forward, calling on responsible members of society and the government to take initiatives in this regard.

He further said, earning money alone did not fulfil one's responsibilities. People should also use their financial resources and capabilities to contribute to a healthy society. Personal wealth has little value if others in society are not doing well, he said, adding that leading a good life means ensuring collective well-being rather than focusing only on oneself.

Noted playwright Abdul Aziz presided over the programme. Acting Director General of Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy Harun, Ekushey Padak-winning playwright, actress, producer and director Lucky Enam, actor Kashem and others were also present.

-MT