Classic Bangladeshi films are taking over Modhumita Cinema Hall in Motijheel this week, offering audiences a free trip through the country’s cinematic history.
The week-long festival, organised by Dhaka South City Corporation (DSCC) as part of the Hridoye Dhaka-416 programme, began on 22 August and will continue until 28 August. With two screenings every day at 3pm and 6pm, the festival is bringing some of Bangladesh’s most memorable films back to the big screen.
For audiences heading to the hall on 24 August, Jibon Theke Neya and Nantu Ghatak are scheduled for screening. The remaining line-up includes Ashikkhito and Rongbaaz on 25 August, Sabuj Sathi and Nacher Putul on 26 August, Durdese and Dahan on 27 August, and Dost Dushman and Bodhu Biday on 28 August.
The festival opened with Mukh O Mukhosh on 22 August, followed by Nawab Sirajuddaula and 13 No Feku Ostagar Lane on 23 August.
The screenings are free, making the festival an opportunity for both longtime cinema lovers and younger audiences to experience these films on the big screen.
The festival opened on Saturday at Modhumita Cinema Hall with a ceremony honouring celebrated film personalities, industry professionals, journalists and historic cinema halls for their contributions to Bangladesh’s cinematic heritage.
Chief guest and Prime Minister’s Political Adviser Zahir Uddin Swapan said the initiative could have a far-reaching impact. He noted that more than 850 cinema halls once operated across the country, but the number has declined significantly.
“Smartphones and modern multimedia have changed audiences’ tastes in the digital age. Filmmakers must therefore consider changing audience preferences, while the government must provide the necessary policy support to the sector,” he said.
State Minister for Cultural Affairs Ali Newaz Mahmud Khaiyam said quality films could help Bangladesh’s cinema industry regain its former glory.
DSCC Administrator Md Abdus Salam said cinema remains vital to documenting the country’s history, including the Liberation War, Language Movement and anti-fascist movement. He said DSCC organised the festival to showcase Dhaka’s history and culture at home and abroad.
The event also featured honours for living and deceased film personalities, film journalists and historic cinema halls, including Lion Cinema Hall, Azad Cinema Hall and Modhumita Cinema Hall.
