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DHAKA, June 17, 2026 (BSS) - Cultural Affairs Minister Nitai Roy Chowdhury today said the government is firmly committed to reviving 'Jatra' and the traditional circus industry through comprehensive state patronage and strategic modernization.
He said this while speaking as the chief guest at the opening session of the two-day "Circus and Jatra Performing Arts Development Workshop", organized by Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy at the National Theatre Building here.
“Our ancient history, heritage, and culture are extraordinarily rich. We aim to present our magnificent traditions to the global stage and make flowers bloom in the desert of our cultural sphere,” said Nitai.
Reflecting on the historic July-August 2024 mass uprising led by the student community, the minister remarked that a profound state transformation has been initiated in the country.
He emphasized that the current government is working tirelessly to fulfill these high aspirations, where the cultivation of a healthy cultural environment free of vulgarity is paramount.
He further announced that primary operational permissions for Jatra and Circus performances will henceforth be issued directly from the Ministry to eliminate administrative and law enforcement harassment.
Speaking as the special gust, State Minister for Cultural Affairs Ali Newaz Mahmood Khyom highlighted that under the direct guidance of the Prime Minister, the government has prioritized the resurrection of these potent cultural mediums.
He stressed the need for architectural updates, including contemporary stage management, modern lighting, and orchestra integration.
Prime Minister’s Adviser for Cultural Affairs Dr. Zahed Ur Rahman was also present as the special guest.
The keynote paper on "Circus in Bangladesh: Heritage, Art Form, and Crisis" was presented by researcher Dr. Simon Zakaria.
The paper was comprehensively discussed by Dr. Yusuf Hassan Ark, Professor of Drama and Dramatics at Jahangirnagar University, and Jhumur Asma Jui, prominent documentary filmmaker.
Field-level challenges were highlighted by Special Discussants Sheikh Aftab Uddin, Proprietor of The Great Rowshan Circus, and Md. Shahin Miah, General Secretary of the Bangladesh Circus Owners Association.
The seminar was presided over by Kaniz Moula, Secretary of the Ministry of Cultural Affairs, while Sheikh Rezauddin Ahmed, Director General of Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy, delivered the welcome address.
