ADIVASI CULTURAL FESTIVAL 2007

OPEN TO ALL

The Adivasis of Bangladesh demonstrate unique cultures, traditions, knowledge and much more. Their diverse cultures, languages and traditions contribute profusely to make Bangladesh a culturally rich country. Eleven ethnic communities in the southeast [Chittagong Hill Tracts]; Santal, Oraon, Munda, Malo, Mahato, Koch, Rajbangshi in the north; the Garos and Hajongs  in the north-central plains; Monipuri, Khasi, Patra and tea garden communities in the northeast; and Rakhaings in the coastal districts of Cox's Bazar, Barguna and Patuakhali districts have distinct cultural life.

Bangladesh can surely take pride in its diverse and vibrant cultural life with such distinct ethnic communities. Their languages and cultures also enrich the language and cultural life of the majority Bengalis.
       
The boundary of cultural life goes far beyond stage performance of dances, songs and drama. Language, knowledge, thought, belief, tradition, technology, behavior, rights, festivals--all these are parts of the cultural life of a human community. Protection of cultures cannot be limited to mere efforts for the protection of dances, songs and drama. If a community's right to land, local resources, education and practice of traditions in their own language, and use of knowledge and local technologies are not secure, efforts for protection of culture become meaningless.

Adivasis belonging to different corners of Bangladesh are disadvantaged and marginal peoples today. In many instances, they have lost their identities and languages. This has severe consequences in their social, political, economic and cultural life. They have become defenseless, excluded and are compelled to assimilate in many instances.
    
It is a tough struggle to provide political protection to the Adivasi life and culture. While State attention and policy are much needed for the protection of the Adivasis, increased human communication of the cultural majority with these cultural minorities is imperative. With this in mind SEHD has organized this cultural festival in association with Adivasi community based organizations and many others. The Adivasi cultural festival is an assembly of Adivasis and others. It is also a celebration of life and cultural diversity. Everyone, irrespective of ethnicity, religion and race, is cordially invited.  

PROGRAMS

17 March 2007.
Inaugural Session 4:00 PM

Welcome Address: Philip Gain
Inaugurator: Basundhara Dewan
Chair: Prof. Sakhawat Ali Khan, Chairman, SEHD
Chief Guest: Prof. Anisuzzaman 
Special Guests: Prof. Rafiqul Islam, Mr. Promode Mankin and Ms. Khushi Kabir

Cultural Show: 5:30-7:30 PM

18 March 2007
Discussion 04:00-05:00 PM

Discussion: 04:00-05:30 PM
Guests of honor: Sudibya Kanti Khisa, Khan Md. Shahid, Sheram Niranjan and Principal Kyaw Thein Aung
Chair: Sagarika Roaza

Cultural Show 5:30-07:30 PM
Performed by: Mandi, Chak, Chakma, Tea Communities and Khyang Cultural Teams

19 March 2007

Closing Ceremony
Discussion: 4:00-5:30 PM
Chief Guest: Dr. Noazesh Ahmed
Guests of honor: Zahin Ahmed, Farida Akhter and Sudatya Bikash Tanchangya
Chair: Zuamlian Amlai

Cultural Show 5: 30-7:30 PM
Performed by: Tripura, Monipuri, Rakhaing and Malo Cultural Teams