Information and Broadcasting Minister Zahir Uddin Swapon has said cinema is not merely a medium of entertainment, but a powerful tool for constructing human perspectives, thoughts, and the mental world.
He remarked that a creative work, whether it be a film or a book, can trigger a deep “paradigm shift” in human thinking.
The minister made these comments as the chief guest at Satyajit Ray Festival held at Teacher-Student Centre (TSC) auditorium of Jahangirnagar University on Monday.
The festival was jointly organised by Jahangirnagar University Itihas Oitijhyo Parishad and Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR).
Minister Swapon noted that individuals associated with communication and creativity play a vital role in shaping the social psyche.
He added that the framework of general thinking and new perspectives in society are born through their work.
The minister said the history of subcontinent, particularly the 1947 partition of India, has exerted a profound influence on our literature, culture, and overall thought processes.
However, Swapon urged everyone to remain vigilant so that this historical impact does not limit freedom of thought.
He further called for the expansion of activities by organisations working with history and heritage, emphasising the importance of increasing engagement with the youth.
Describing Satyajit Ray’s philosophy of humanism and free-thinking as equally relevant today, the information minister urged creative professionals to advance society by embracing and practising these values in the contemporary context.
The event was also addressed by Acting High Commissioner of India Pawan Badhe, Film Researcher Moinuddin Khaled, Filmmaker Tanvir Mokammel, Actor and Filmmaker Tauquir Ahmed, and Film Analyst Bidhan Rebeiro.
Earlier, the minister toured an exhibition of paintings of Satyajit Ray at the venue and signed the visitor’s book.
The programme was attended by teachers and students at the university along with film enthusiasts.
Following the festival, the information minister participated in a ceremony marking the assumption of responsibility by the new committee of the Jahangirnagar University Journalists’ Association.
