DHAKA, May 11, 2024 (BSS) - State Minister for Information and Broadcasting Mohammad Ali Arafat today called for collective efforts to showcase Bangladesh before the world through films.
 
"I think it is possible to showcase Bangladesh before the world through films. It is a strong medium. We will do every possible thing to take ahead this medium," he said.

The state minister was addressing the Bangladesh Film Directors' Association (BFDA) Award distribution ceremony at Bangabandhu International Conference Centre (BICC) in the city.

Appreciating the initiative of BFDA to recognize the artistes and co-artistes, Arafat hoped such private initiatives will be taken in large scale in the future as the government cannot do everything.
 
"We will give all-out cooperation to boost the film industry and create a congenial environment for flourishing the industry," he said.

Pointing that before the country's independence, the state minister said, Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman had given a proposal to the Pakistan government to establish Film Development Corporation (FDC) and subsequently the FDC was founded.

Highlighting the role of cinema in the 1971 Liberation War, he said cinema played a great role in pre and post Liberation War period.

Noting different challenges of the film industry, Arafat said, "I have studied the current problems in the industry and I am trying to find out the way to overcome the challenges to bring back the glorious past in the industry.

The technological advancement apparently appeared as a challenge to the film industry, he said, adding, "We have to think about converting challenges into opportunities".

Putting emphasize on making the cinema halls profitable and economically viable, the state minister said if cinema halls remain functional and people go to halls, everybody in the film industry will be benefited.

Referring to Prime Minister's instruction over the development of the country's film industry, Arafat said, "Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has already given me some instructions regarding films. She directed for establishing Cineplex and multipurpose cinema halls across the country and making them economically viable".

He wished quality films will be produced in the country in future like the past and people will go back to cinema halls to help revive the industry.

FDC Managing Director Nuzhat Yeasmin, BFDA President Kazi Hayat and Secretary General Shahin Sumon and ATN Bangla Chairman Dr Mahfuzur Rahman spoke at the function, among others.

Later, the state minister distributed the award among the winners.