Popular magazine programme Ityadi has travelled to Lakshmipur for its latest episode, continuing its long-standing tradition of showcasing Bangladesh’s history, heritage and cultural diversity from significant locations across the country.
Since the 1990s, Ityadi has avoided studio settings and instead filmed at sites of historical and cultural importance.
For this episode, the team selected the coastal district of Lakshmipur and built a stage at the century-old Nabin Kishore High School, a landmark associated with the historic Dalal Bazar Zamindar estate.
The recording turned into a festival-like event. Audience members began arriving in the afternoon, and the venue reached full capacity well before filming started.
People travelled from across Lakshmipur and neighbouring districts, while many watched from rooftops, walls and nearby roads despite light rain and humid weather.
The episode features two special songs.
One is performed by Lakshmipur’s Tanzina Ruma and Feni’s Sazia Sultana Putul, with lyrics by Kabir Bakul and music by Akash Mahmud.
The other is a district-themed musical performance featuring lyrics by Moniruzzaman Palash, music by Ujjal Sinha and vocals by Tanzina Ruma and Rajib, accompanied by local dancers choreographed by SK Jahid.
As part of the audience segment, four viewers were selected through a quiz about Lakshmipur and later performed alongside veteran actress Dilara Zaman, who also hails from the district.
The programme also includes a special interview with Nishat Majumdar, the first Bangladeshi woman to summit Mount Everest.
She reflects on her historic climb and shares memories of carrying an Ityadi placard to the world’s highest peak alongside fellow mountaineer MA Muhit.
Several reports highlight Lakshmipur’s soybean fields, coconut and betel nut plantations, history and landmarks.
Other features focus on an inspiring primary school and the hardships of a local boatman whose livelihood has been affected by river erosion.
The international segment explores Australia’s Great Ocean Road, one of the world’s most famous coastal routes and longest war memorials.
The episode also includes Kashem TV, the viewers’ letters segment and satirical sketches on contemporary social issues, featuring a large ensemble of regular performers.
Ityadi will air on Bangladesh Television (BTV) on Friday, 31 July, immediately after the 8pm Bangla news.
Hanif Sanket wrote, directed and hosted the programme. Fagun Audio Vision produced it, while Keya Cosmetics Limited sponsored the episode.
