Staff Reporter:
Information and Broadcasting Minister Zahir Uddin Swapon on Friday stressed the need for strengthening social and political culture, saying healthy interaction among people and vibrant social institutions are essential for building a civilised society.
“The mere struggle for power and aggressive rivalry cannot define civilisation,” he said, adding that a society lacking healthy channels of emotional exchange and strong social institutions cannot develop into an ideal one.
The minister made the remarks while speaking as the chief guest at the opening ceremony of the ‘Fruit Festival’ organised by the Jatiya Press Club on its premises this morning.
The Press Club courtyard became lively in the morning with an array of seasonal fruits and patriotic songs, marking the festive occasion.
Emphasising the importance of nurturing healthy values and social harmony, the minister said such traditional cultural events should not remain confined within urban centres but be expanded to grassroots levels.
He described the festival as more than a simple celebration, saying it carries a broader social and cultural philosophy aimed at strengthening mutual bonds through the sharing and consumption of seasonal fruits.
Citing examples from different cultures and societies, Zahir Uddin Swapon said that expressions of gratitude towards nature and seasonal produce exist in all religions and communities.
He said the diversity of fruits is a blessing of nature and a reflection of divine grace upon the land, and that enjoying seasonal fruits is also a form of gratitude towards nature and the Creator.
Commending the initiative, the minister said that when institutions like the Jatiya Press Club uphold such cultural traditions, the media can help spread their positive impact nationwide.
He expressed hope that expanding such healthy cultural practices from the national level to the grassroots would contribute significantly to building a humane and progressive society.
This year’s festival showcased around 42 varieties of seasonal fruits. Alongside the fruit exhibition, a cultural programme featured patriotic and folk songs performed by artistes Tamanna Haque, Shahriar Rafat, Mini Alauddin and Babu, captivating the audience.
Members of the Jatiya Press Club and their families enjoyed the day-long event, which continued from morning till afternoon.
The opening ceremony was chaired by National Press Club President Hasan Hafiz, while General Secretary Ayub Bhuiyan delivered the welcome speech.
The programme was conducted by Management Committee Member and Convener of the Special Events and Hospitality Sub-Committee Kader Gani Chowdhury.
Senior journalists and members of the management committee, including Kazi Raunak Hossain, Bakhtiar Rana, Syed Abdal Ahmed, AKM Mohsin and Masumur Rahman Khalili, among others, were present along with their family members.
