Bangladesh Cultural Policy

0. INTRODUCTION

Bangladesh is situated in the north eastern part of South Asia. It came into existence as an independent state through the Liberation War of 1971. 26th March is its Independence Day. The country having the land area of 1, 47, 570 sq. km. lies between 20o34Ñ and 26o38 Ñ north latitude, and 88o01 Ñ and 92o41 Ñ east longitude across the Tropic of Cancer. It is surrounded by Indian territory on three sides -- north, west and most part of the east, by Myanmar (Burma) on south-east corner, and by the Bay of Bengal on south. It is a riverine country. It has six seasons in a year ; every two months constitute one season. Its daily temperature ranges from 10.00 to 12.00 Celsius in the cool months, and in the other months it varies between 28.00 and 40.00 Celsius. Annual rainfall ranges from 160 cm to 200 cm in the west, 200 cm to 400 cm in the south-east and 250 cm to 400 cm in the north-east. The country is densely populated area, 755 persons per sq. km. Its present population is 120 millions, of which nearly half is female. The literacy rate is 32.4%. Major part of the country is cultivable plain land. As a result, 68.5% of its population is farmer. The earliest inhabitants of this land were Austro-Asiatic (shortly Austric) people. Later, the Dravidians from Western India joined them. Gradually people of other races like Negroid, Caucasoid and Mongoloid migrated to this area one after another, who settled here permanently and lived together with its earlier inhabitants. In course of time mixed-marriages occurred among them, which resulted in the creation of a new race known as Bangalee. The language also took a new form which is called Bangla (Bengali). This Bangla (Bengali) is now the national as well as state language of the country. It is the mother tongue of all its people except the tribals, who are very few in number and live mostly in the border areas. They speak their own languages like Chakma, Marma, Manipuri, Garo, Hajong etc. They also speak Bangla in the society with the non-tribals. The educated people of the country can also speak English, Hindi, Urdu, Arabic etc. as and when necessary. The religion of the majority people is Islam. Hinduism, Buddhism and Christianity are also followed by a few. However, of the total population 88.3% are Muslims, 10.5% Hindus, 0.6% Buddhists and 0.3% Christians. The Government of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh is of unitary form. The first constitution of the country enacted in 1972 provided with a parliamentary system of Government. In 1975 the constitution was amended and the presidential capital.

1. THE CULTURE

The word of Culture is derived from Latin word of Cultural meaning is the soil. The social scientists, therefore, used the term for a people’s whole way of life. In everyday conversation, the word of Culture may refer to activities in such fields as art, literature and music. It includes arts, beliefs, customs, innovations, language, technology and traditions. Tyler, the renowned social scientist, defined culture as "that complex whole, which includes knowledge, belief, art, morals, law, custom and other capabilities and habits acquired by man as a member of society".

UNESCO, in its World Conference on cultural Policies, held in Mexico City in 1982, states "that the notion of culture is generally taken in its broadest sense, as covering all the distinctive spiritual and material, intellectual and emotional features characterizing a society or social group."

1.1. Culture of Bangladesh:

Culture is the mirror of a nation. To know about a nation one has first to know about its culture and its people. The culture of Bangladesh finds its rudiments in the society of its original Austric people. Later, with the influx of alien races of different creed and culture, added more elements to it, and thereby enriched and improved its standard. Religious belief of the rulers of different dynasties also played a great role in the formation and development of the culture of this soil. The Buddhist influence in the Pala period (750-1160 A.D), the Hindu influence in the Sena Period (1095-1205 A.D) and the Muslim influence in the Sultani and Mughal period (1205-1757 A.D) are of great importance. However, the culture of Bangladesh assimilated all the acceptable elements during its long process of development, and thus, took its final shape in the secular character after the Liberation War of 1971. A number of tribal culture also flourish in the country which introduced an element of diversity to the national character.

These para-national formations have been subsumed under the national culture, and are, a source of its pride and strength.

1.2. Identification of Indigenous Folk Culture of Bangladesh:

Bangladesh has a vast area of indigenous culture spread over whole national life and manifest from daily activities of its people. These may be placed into following broad categories in order to obtain a view of the picture of Bangladeshi culture.

1.2.1. The Bangalee Social life:

The majority of the Bangalee nation are farmer. They are 68.5% of the total population. 79.5% people live in 68000 villages. They are simple, courteous and hospitable. They live in joined families. The family bondage is holly and effective. The old member of the family is most honoured. His all sorts of maintenance are borne by the young members till his death.

1.2.2. Food:

Rice is the staple food of the Bangalee people. Fish, lentils and vegetables constitute main curry. Different kinds of cakes and sweetmeats are prepared in different seasons and festivals, particularly at the time of new harvest Nabanna. As per their taste, the cakes are moulded into shapes of birds, fishes, kites, wheels, moon, star, horses, cows etc. Other dehydrated and preserved food stuffs are also prepared according to crops cycles of different grains and are accompanied with ceremonies and songs of the season.

1.2.3. Dress and ornament:

The dress and costumes are extensively varied. Cotton lungi and a jersey called ‘Kurta’ are the common attire for men in the rural areas, as opposed to shirts, trousers and pajamas in the urban areas. Saree is women’s universal dress. In ancient time ornaments were used by both men and women. But now, men do not wear ornaments; it is lavishly used by women only. Each and every limbs of the body like head, hair, ear, nose, throat, arm, wrist, finger, waist, ankle, toe etc. has its own particular ornament which sometimes varies in shapes and sizes. Man cut their hair short, but women do not cut it. Long hair is the object of pride and beauty for women. Bangalee women are very shy. They covers their whole body with the Saree. Even head and face are also covered by its skirts called ‘Ghumta’. The wives are dedicated in the service and nursing of their husbands.

1.2.4. Housing:

The villagers live in huts and cottages. Wood, bamboo and leaves of trees or Ulu (a particular type of long grass) are used for house. Cane, wild creeper and jute are used as rope. Jute stick is used for fencing. In some areas mudwall is also found. Bangladesh being a rainy area, the roof of the cottage is made in Dochala shape which is typical and found only in this country. Tin-shade houses have also been introduced in the villages nowadays. In towns and cities people live in tin-shade houses and buildings.

1.2.5. Festival:

The Bangalee life, once, was full of festivals. In ancient and medieval period till the arrival of the British, the people had economic solvency and leisure time. So, they used to spend their leisure in merrymaking and festivals. Their festivals are of two characters, viz. (a) Secular and (b) Religious. Bangladesh being an agricultural country majority of the population of all religions are engaged either in direct cultivation or related professions. So, "Nabanno" or the new harvest is the earliest festival of the country. It is secular and common to all. Among other secular festivals ‘Pahela Baisakh’ (the Bangla new Year?s day), the Independence Day (26th March), the Victory Day (16th December) and the historic Language Martyr?s Day (21st February) are famous, when the entire people join in celebration with great elate and fervour. Of the religious festivals the Eid-ul-Fitr, the Eid-ul-Azha, Muharram, Shab-e-Barat, Shab-e-Qudar and Eid-e-Milad-un-nabi are observed by the Muslims. The Hindus observe Durga Puja, Kali Puja, Sarasvati Puja, Janmasthami and so on, the Buddhists, the Buddha Purnima and the Christians, the Christmas Day (25th December). Social customs like marriage ceremony and funeral rites are also observed by the people according to their own religious system.

1.2.6. Dance:

Dancing in Bangladesh draws freely on the subcontinental classical forms as well as the folk, tribal, ballet and middle-eastern strains. Of the tribal dances, particularly popular are, ‘Manipuri’ and ‘Santal’. Bulbul Lalitkala Academy, set up in Dhaka in the early 1950s played a pioneering role in the promotion of dancing in the country.

1.2.7. Music:

The music of Bangladesh has developed through centuries along the three main streams viz., folk, modern and classical. Folk music is the music of the native soil and the heart of its people. It has been nurtured through ages by the village minstrels and bards. With sweet melodies and touching words of love, tragedy and devotional mysticism, folk music is the most popular form of music in Bangladesh. The best known form are bhatiali, bowl, jaari, shaari, gambhira, marfati and murshidi. In this, we find ballads on the hopes and aspirations, love and entrancement, happiness and sorrow of simple robust masses. Lalan Fakir, Hason Raja, Abbasuddin and Abdul Alim are the greatest names in the country’s folk music. Nobel Laureate Rabindranath Tagore and rebel poet Kazi Nazrul Islam were the pioneers of modern Bangla music. Rabindranath initiated a blend of East and West and Nazrul experimented with the synthesis of classical folk and middle eastern strains. The contemporary adherents of both the schools have been widening their depth and

vista with new experiments which include not only compositions but also instruments. Bangladesh shares the rich tradition of classical music of this subcontinent. The country produced many musicians and maestros of international repute like Ustad Alauddin khan, Ustad Ali Akbar Khan and Ustad Ayet Ali Khan in the field of classical music.

1.2.8. Drama:

Drama is also one of the important means of recreation in Bangladesh. There are two kinds of theatres in our country-viz. Jatra and theatre. Jatra is the folk theatre. It is extremely popular in the villages of Bangladesh as well as amongst common people living in the urban areas. Winter is the best season for jatra, when performances of mythological or historical plays and social melodramas interspersed with interludes of dances and songs are presented, often through the whole night. In Bangladesh, theatre got a new lease of life after the independence of the country in 1971. Though almost all plays are staged in Bangla, the range of play rights is varied from local stalwarts to Brecht or Sophocles.

1.2.9. Sports:

Sports is one of the best sorts of amusement. It is an inherent hobby of all men and women from their childhood. Many of the games make a man healthy, smart and stout. Each country has its own indigenous games played by its people that suits its climate and culture. It is of two kinds --in-door and out-door. Ha-do-do (kabadi), dariabandha, ekka-dokka, kanamachi etc. are the indigenous and local games. As this country is full of rivers, people’s chief transport is nauka (boat). Nauka-baich (boat race), therefore, developed as one of the important sports in the country. With the passing of times the educated people of the country are also adopting the international sports like Football, Volleyball, Badminton, Cricket and Hockey.

1.2.10. Fine Art:

The origin of the modern trend of Bangladesh art can be traced to the foundation of the Arts and Crafts Institute in the late 1940s by Zainul Abedin, Anwarul Haque, Quamrul Hasan, Shafiuddin Ahmed and others. Trained in Calcutta and conversant with the all Indian style, they were gifted enough to initiate a unique style and legacy blending modern Art forms with traditional folk rhythms. Later, artists with their modernist style enriched our art. Rashid Chowdhury's tapestries and S. M. Sultan’s primitive articulations are internationally recognized.

1.2.11. Handicrafts:

In handicrafts the Bangladeshi craftsmen of both the sex excelled in the medieval period. Stone and wood carving, ivory works, pottery, weaving of Muslin and Jamdani textiles, metal works, Jute & cane works, repousse or filigree works, nakshi kantha (embroidered quilt) -- all are its best examples. In seventeenth and eighteenth centuries these objects were exported in Europe, Africa and other parts of Asia. During the British rule, this traditional works were discouraged. So, it was going to disappear from the country. But after the Liberation these works have been revived and revitalized.

1.2.12. Art Heritage :

The historical objects and art heritage of Bangladesh bear testimony to art and culture prevailing in this country since its earliest time down to the present period. Ancient monuments, sculptures, terra-cotta plaques, copper-plates, stone inscriptions, coins, arms and armours, decorative art The Department of Archaeology and Museums is going on excavating sites of ancient civilization and is getting objects of Arts of different branches. These objects are collected, preserved and exhibited in a number of museums of the country. These objects of art and culture were made by the indigenous artisans of this country. They reflect the picture of the contemporary society of our people.

1.2.13. Cinema :

Cinema is the major and most popular form of mass entertainment. The first feature film was made in 1956. But the foundation of the film industry was, however, laid three years later when a full fledged film studio under Film Development Corporation was set up by the Government. This studio is now equipped with the latest equipments. One can operate all sorts of modern cinematic technology here. To encourage quality film making, the Government has introduced national film awards and set up an institute of Film Archive. A Film institute has also been established recently to provide formal training to the students of film making. "Surjo Dighal Bari" and "Dahan" are two internationally acclaimed films.

1.2.14. Literature :

Bangla, the language of 95% of the people, originated from the Eastern Group of Indo-Aryan family of languages in the 7th century. Devotional literature with lyrical overtones formed its basis in the middle ages. Just as charyapad, an anthology of Buddhist mystical songs is its earliest

reference, and the Muslim devotional literature of Daulat Kazi and Alaol form the higher peaks. In the early stages poetry was the only medium of literature. In the eighteenth century the prose was started and thereby novel and drama came into being. Michael Madhusudan Dutta, Rabindranath Tagore and Kazi Nazrul Islam are renowned figures in Bangla literature. Rabindranath Tagore won the Nobel prize in literature. His song is our national anthem. Kazi Nazrul Islam is our national poet.

1.2.15. Tribal culture :

There are about a million tribal people in Bangladesh. They are divided into several communities. Majority of them live in the south-eastern and north-eastern hilly areas, and a few live in the northern and western plain land. About 27 tribal communities have so far been identified, such as Chakma, Marma, Tripuri, Manipuri, Garo, Hajong, Santal etc. The Santals are regarded as the descendants of the Austric race who are the earliest settlers of this soil. They are living in the plain areas. The other 26 tribal communities are the descendants of the Mongoloid race. They entered this country through Assam, Tripura and Myanmar (Burma). They live in the hilly areas. People of each community speak their own dialect of language.

They have no script to write with. The life and culture of the hilly tribals are more or less similar. They have their own system of cultivation which is called ?Jum Chash?. Their cottage industry is rich. They have traditional magnificent variety of floor loom fabrics and distinctive silver jewelry. Most weaving is done by women in tribal areas, as distinct from handloom weaving in the rest of Bangladesh where men are traditionally weavers. Yarn of much thick counts are spur on traditional wheels by tribal women and the dyeing of colours are limited to black, green, red and yellow.

In the above discussion a short picture of the culture of Bangladesh have been portrayed. The indigenous culture of Bangladesh, which once was rich lost its atmosphere at the advent of the British in 1757 A.D. Their colonial rule brought about a total change in the social and economic condition of the country which resulted in the destruction of its indigenous culture. However, after liberation, steps have been taken to revive it.

2. GENERAL DIRECTIONS OF CULTURAL POLICY

The culture of Bangladesh is quite distinct in nature and has got significant identity. It can easily be distinguished from other culture of the world. It is the product of this soil and suit the climate

and ecology of the country. The People of Bangladesh are born and brought up in this culture. They feel comfort in it. Now it has become a mirror of the national life of the Bangladeshis. So, The cultural policy of Bangladesh should be the central force in identifying positive national awareness. This national cultural awareness worked as the main factor in the Language Movement of 1952 and the Liberation War of 1971. During the British and the Pakistani rule the people of Bangladesh was culturally handicapped. Attempts were taken at that time to divert Bangalee culture to different directions. Rabindra songs were discouraged and stopped in Radio and Television. Proposal was also given by the Pakistani rulers to make Urdu as the only state language of Pakistan, which was strongly protested by the students of Dhaka University. A strong movement was launched by all sections of Bangalee People in 1952. This historic movement is known as "Language Movement". This Movement reached its culmination in the Liberation War of 1971. During this period national feelings were strongly felt by the sons of this soil. They became conscious of their traditional culture. After the Liberation, the cultural policy took a new turn. The awareness of the need for a secular cultural policy in the country followed by the Governmental practice of Arts promotion, has been growing since then. Although there is a great deal of traditional culture in Bangladesh, various new forms began to appear by this time. At the same time efforts have been made to protect the indigenous Bangalee Culture from corruption and to promote it in its traditional form. Government of Bangladesh has taken all responsibilities for its protection, preservation and promotion. The lost elements are being discovered through researches and thereby revived in the national life. Active patronization is being extended to all who are engaged in the work of cultivating and promoting its various branches. Cultural pacts are being made with the developed countries of the world, so that our astistes can go there, present performances and exhibit our cultural heritage world wide. Similarly artistes of other countries are also invited to our country, so that our artistes can learn from them the technological know-how and this is very much helpful to develop our culture. Training facilities are being extended to the new comers for their professional development. In the constitution of Bangladesh there are provisions regarding the promotion of our Arts and culture in Article Nos. 23 and 24 (see Legislation). Thus the Arts and Culture have gained a legal and Governmental backing.

3. ADMINISTRATIVE AND INSTITUTIONAL STRUCTURES

3.1. Government or autonomous institutions :

Different fields of Bangladeshi culture are being cultivated by innumerable individuals and institutions which are lying scattered all over the country. For protection, preservation and

promotion of our traditional culture necessitates proper training of the students and also requires financial patronization. The Government of Bangladesh, therefore, like those of other countries of the world, established a number of institutions to deal with specific branches of culture. Each institution dealing with particular branch or branches has created a net-work all over the country by establishing local institutions in each administrative unit. These institutions are either (a) Government or (b) autonomous in character. The Government institutions are those which are controlled directly by the officials of the concerned Ministry. On the other hand the autonomous institutions are those which are controlled by committees constituted by the Government. Both types of institutions are run by Government finances. Beside these institutions, there are still some private organizations that work voluntarily in this field. They are also given financial help by the Government from time to time.

3.2. Facilities and Institutions :

For proper control and administration of the above mentioned institutions and organizations, the Government of Bangladesh has set up several Ministries. Each Ministry look after the activities of the institutions placed under it. The names of these Ministries along with the institutions placed under each of them have been discussed below in a nutshell.

3.2.1. Ministry of Cultural Affairs :

A. GOVERNMENT INSTITUTIONS

3.2.1.1. Department of Archaeology and Museums :

During the British rule in Indian Subcontinent, the Archaeological Survey of India, was set up. After 1947, its branches in Pakistani part, was named as the Department of Archaeology of Pakistan. Its head office was in West Pakistan with a branch office in Dhaka, the then provincial capital of East preservation and presentation of historical monuments and maintenance of Archeological museums and sites. It imparts visual education to students, teachers and other visitors about our past and provides most valuable materials to scholars and historians for the reconstruction of our history.

Functions :

The broad function of the Department of Archaeology and Museums are as under :

(a) Preservation of the National Cultural Heritage.

(b) Protection of ancient monuments as per Antiquities Act of 1968.

(c) Maintenance, conservation and repair of ?Protected? sites and monuments all over the country as per Archaeological Works Code.

(d) Planning of exploration and excavation.

(e) Exploration and excavation of ancient sites as per pre-planned programme.

(f) Decipherment and study of ancient epigraphic records including stone inscriptions, copper plates, coins and manuscripts in Sanskrit, Arabic and Persian.

(g) Planning, establishment and maintenance of museum for the preservation and presentation of movable cultural antiquities.

(h) Control and regulation of antiquities as per Antiquity Act. of 1968.

(i) Publications of books, brochures, guide books, view cards and other publicity materials for the presentation of our cultural heritage with a view to provide most reliable information to National and International scholars devoted to the study and reconstruction of our history.

(j) Systematic and exhaustive survey for preparing a complete documentation of all protected and unprotected mosques and monuments of historical and cultural importance.

(k) Collection of antiquities and their study and research.

(l) Maintenance of a specialised library.

(m) Research on our cultural heritage.

(n) Chemical treatment of ancient monuments and other movable antiquities discovered in excavation of ancient sites or otherwise, and those in the museums.

(o) Co-ordination of the UNESCO Missions activities for the restoration and preservation of our national heritage.

(p) Liaison between Administrative Ministry and other Educational Institutions including Universities and other autonomous museums.

3.2.1.2. National Archives of Bangladesh:

The history of National Archives in Bangladesh can be traced from the British rule in the sub-continent. During that time, the secretariat administration with new Ministries started functioning resulting in the opening of new departments and offices. As a result, the Imperial Record Department was established in Calcutta in 1891 to create a central repository of Secretarial files and records after destroying the useless ones. It was, later on, transferred to Delhi and was named as National Archives of India. After the partition of India in 1947 the National Archives of Pakistan was established in Karachi in 1951 under the Directorate of Archives and Libraries and after the Liberation of Bangladesh from Pakistani domination in 1971 the Government of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh established National Archives of Bangladesh in 1973 in Dhaka under the Department of Archives & Libraries. The Government of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh has promulgated the National Archives Ordinance, 1983 to provide for the establishment of National Archives for the collection, preservation, maintenance and administration of permanent records and archives of the Government. The Government has also constituted a 13-member National Archives Advisory Council consisting of representatives from different Ministries and Universities to advise the Government on all matters relating to location, preservation and use of public archives.

The Functions of the National Archives are :

(a) Preservation and maintenance of Government records.

(b) Acquisition and preservation of private collections.

(c) Acquisition of Government printed materials/ publications, newspapers and periodicals and their maintenance.

(d) Maintenance of Archives Library for use by research scholars.

(e) Publication of finding aids relating to the material available in Archives.

(f) As a member of the International Council on Archives, the National Archives has to keep liaison with foreign institutions/organizations who are members of the International Council on Archives.

(g) Advisory services to the different government and private institutions in conservation and restoration of documents of historical importance.

(h) Reference services to visiting research scholars from within the country and abroad in connection with their research projects.

(i) Implementation of the National Archives Ordinance, 1983.

3.2.1.3. Copyright Office, Dhaka :

Copyright office is a quasi-judicial attached Department of the Ministry of Cultural Affairs under the Government. It is established under the Copyright Ordinance, 1962, as amended upto 1978 (Ordinance No. XXXIV of 1962).

The functions of the office are :

(a) Registration of copyright in literary, dramatic, musical, artistic, cinematographic and architectural works, records and broadcast ;

(b) Granting license for performing a work in public or communicating to the public by Radio or Television etc.

(c) Granting license to republish any work under the different categories mentioned above.

(d) Granting license for producing and publishing translation of a literary or dramatic work in any language.

(e) Prevention of importation of infringing copies of any copyrighted works.

(f) Determining royalting in respect of publications of literary, dramatic or musical works etc. and or their communications to the public.

(g) Control over performing Rights Societies in respect of all fees, charges or royalties which such societies may propose to collect for the performance in public of works in respect of which they have authority to grant such licenses.

(h) Exercising the powers conferred upon and perform the duties under the Ordinance.

(i) Provision for the Secretariat for and execution of various decisions and deliberations of the Copyright Board constituted under Section 45 of the Government Copyright Ordinance, 1962. The Copyright Board has certain powers of Civil Court in deciding any disputed case coming before it under

(j) Maintaining liaison with International Bodies like UNESCO and WIPO, Bangladesh has acceded to be UCC of UNESCO and is likely to accede to Berne Convention and it is incumbent upon the Copyright office to discharge, in due course, all duties and responsibilities in respect of international commitments arising out of the said membership.

(k) Hearing and adjudication of disputed cases on registration of copyright and any other disputes related thereto.

(l) Tendering advice to the Government for amendment and improvement of Copyright Laws in the line of International standard.

(m) Discharging function of the National Copyright Information Centre in collaboration with the International Copyrighted Information Centre (ICIC).

(n) Preserving Copyright works after registration.

(o) All administrative works.

Copyright Board’s Function :

(p) Summoning and enforcing the attendance of any person and examining him

(q) Requiring the discovery and production of any document.

(r) Receiving evidence on affidavits.

(s) Issuing commission for the examination of witness or documents.

(t) Requisitioning any public record or copy thereof from any court of office.

(u) Any other matter of procedure which may be prescribed.

3.2.1.4. Department of Public Library :

In order to provide reading facilities to all sections of general public, the then Government of Pakistan established a Central Public Library in Dhaka in late Fifties. Two more institutions viz., (a) Pakistan council and (b) Bureau of National Reconstruction (BNR) were also established for the same purpose in Dhaka in the Sixties. After the independence of the country in 1971, the latter two institutions were merged together under a new name Bangladesh Parishad. In 1982 the Government again merged this Bangladesh Parishad with the Central Public Library and reorganised the Library services into a Department. The newly reorganized Department of the Public Library will have the following Libraries under its administrative control.

(a) Central Public Library in Dhaka.

(b) Divisional Public Libraries at Divisional head quarters.

(c) District Public Libraries at District head quarters.

The Broad functions of the Department of Public Library are as under :

(a) To provide reading facilities for all classes of readers.

(b) To act primarily as a Reference Library with :

(i) General reading rooms.

(ii) Special reading room for ladies.

(iii) Periodical room.

(iv) Research room.

(v) Manuscript room.

(c) To build up and maintain a comprehensive book collection as varied as possible with special emphasis on text and reference books.

(d) To build up and maintain adequate stock of books of Juvenile interest with arrangement for circulation through Juvenile Libraries situated in different residential areas of the city.

(e) To function as a cultural centre with a carefully designed programme of extension lectures, exhibitions etc. so as to create and foster intellectual interest and reading habit among the general public.

(f) To shoulder responsibilities of reorganization and development of Public Libraries in the country.

(g) To provide advisory service and reference service to the public in general.

(h) To provide research and reference service to Scholars and to Government Departments.

(i) To organize country wide literary competition with a view to find new talents in the literary field.

B. AUTONOMOUS INSTITUTIONS

3.2.1.5. Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy (National Academy of Performing and Fine Arts) :

The main branches of the culture of Bangladesh are Performing and Fine Arts. They are distinctive with their special features. They play an important role in the national life of the people. Preservation, promotion and cultivation of these branches of culture are necessary to maintain the continuation of traditional culture of the country. But no serious attempt was undertaken by the Government in the pre-independence days. After the Liberation of the country in 1971, its urgency was seriously realized. However, in 1974 the Government of the People?s Republic of Bangladesh set up this academy by the Act No. XXX, to encourage and promote the growth and development of Fine Arts and national culture, and to provide for connected purpose. The Act was finally modified on 31 May, 1989 with necessary changes. The Academy is an autonomous institution administered by a 21-member "parishad" (council) to be constituted by the Government. Its chairman is the Hon?ble Minister in-charge of the Ministry of Cultural Affairs, Government of the People?s Republic of Bangladesh.

Its functions are :

(a) Encouraging and promoting the growth and development of our national culture and Fine Arts.

(b) Arranging for research on traditional and contemporary national culture and Fine Arts.

(c) Rendering Financial help to meritorious and creative artistes.

(d) Granting recognition and affiliation to related institutions.

(e) Offering financial assistance to the affiliated institutions and organizations engaged in the promotion of cultural activities.

(f) Organizing art exhibitions, dramatic and musical performances.

(g) Holding seminars and symposia.

(h) Arranging for sending cultural delegations or troupe abroad.

(i) Organizing international festival of music and dance.

(j) Publishing and selling books, periodicals, anthologies on fine Arts and national culture.

(k) Awarding prizes and medals and conferring academic distinctions.

(l) Setting up Art Galleries.

(m) Any other such acts, as may be necessary for furthering the aims and objects of the Academy.

By now the Academy has set up sixty nine branch institutions in all district headquarters and six thana headquarters.

3.2.1.6. Bangladesh National Museum :

The Bangladesh National Museum at shahbagh area of Dhaka, is the full-fledged and developed institution of former Dhaka (Dacca) Museum which had been started in 1913 by some elites in a small building known as Baraduari at Nimtali area of the city. After the independence of the country in 1971, the Government of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh, on the recommendation of a commission, constituted for this purpose, decided to establish a National Museum, incorporating and developing the former Dhaka (Dacca) Museum. The site of the Museum was shifted from Nimtali to Shahbagh, the most forward place in the city. The National Museum was formally inaugurated in November 1983 and an Ordinance was also promulgated regarding it. The Museum is a statutory autonomous institution administered by a 13-member Board of Trustees, with a reputed educationist as its chairman, nominated by the Government.

The functions of the Museum are as under :

(a) To administer and develop the Bangladesh National Museum.

(b) To collect, preserve and display the antiquities, works of art, ethnological specimens, relics connected with the Liberation Struggle of Bangladesh, specimens of flora and fauna, traditional crafts and artifacts, products of intellectual activities, audio-visual documentary evidence, and such other objects and items related to the cultural and natural heritage of Bangladesh.

(c) To collect, preserve and display material evidence of different aspects of various world civilizations.

(d) To make arrangements for research on the collections of the Museum.

(e) To publish and sell periodicals, books, anthologies and reproductions of objects.

(f) To organize exhibition, conference, lectures, seminars and assemblies on the cultural and natural heritage of Bangladesh.

(g) To organize, with prior approval of the Government, exhibitions outside the country in order to project cultural and natural heritage of Bangladesh.

(h) To assist, encourage and promote development of other museums in Bangladesh.

(i) To take over and administer any museum on such terms or conditions as may be agreed upon between the Board and the museum committee concerned.

(j) To take over and administer any museum established by the Government, or execute any scheme or project prepared by the Government, if so directed by the Government, on such terms and conditions as may be agreed upon between the Board and the Government.

(k) To engage individuals or organizations for specific work for the Museum and to pay remuneration for the same.

(l) To register, organize, administer, regulate and supervise the movable antiquities in Bangladesh, other than those belonging to the Department of Archaeology, in such manner as may be determined by the Board.

(m) To assist individuals, institutions and authorities engaged in educational activities for the understanding of cultural and natural heritage of Bangladesh.

(n) To organize training courses and award certificates in art history and museology independently or in collaboration with other organization.

(o) To do such other things ancillary or incidental to any of the aforesaid functions.

3.2.1.7. Bangladesh Lok O Karushilpa Foundation (Bangladesh Folk Arts and Crafts Foundation) Sonargaon, Narayangonj :

The Folk Arts and Crafts are traditional Culture of Bangladesh. Its origin can be traced in the ancient peasant society of the country. The introduction of weaving textile and the art of boat construction are the manifestation of our material culture -- folk arts and crafts. In weaving of cotton textiles Bangladesh achieved proficiency which excels in the art of textile through-out ancient and medieval period. The finest cotton ‘Muslin’ of Dhaka became a legendary all over the then world. It was exported to Europe and Africa till the coming of the British East India Company. Silk textile, embroidery work, silver filigree and ivory carving are also objects of culture of Bangladesh. With the advent of the British in the middle of 18th century these cottage Industries were disrupted and the culture was going to disappear. After the independence of the country in 1971, the Government of Bangladesh felt the necessity of reviving these crafts of the country. For this purpose Government decided to set up "Bangladesh Folk Arts and Crafts Foundation" at Sonargaon, once the historic capital of Medieval Bengal and the site, where the legendary fine Muslin and Jamdani textile used to be made. The complex of the Foundation covers 50 acres of land and contains the traditional rural environment of folk life with flora, water area, rural huts, craft village, Folk Arts and Crafts Museum. In all, it will be gradually transformed into "Miniature Bangladesh" to be called in Bengali "Ruposhi Bangladesh".

However, in this regard the Government issued a Resolution No. F. 7-2/75-Cul. vide gazette notification on March 18, 1975. In this Resolution it is stated that "Where as it is necessary to provide for preserving and promoting the traditional folk arts and crafts and encouragement of cottage crafts and, for that purpose the Government have decided to constitute a Folk Arts and Crafts Foundation ; It is, therefore, resolved that a Foundation to be called the Bangladesh Folk Arts and Crafts Foundation is hereby established for the purpose and with specified powers and functions". The administration and management of the Foundation vest in a 17-member Board known as "Parichalona Board" (Management Board). Its chairman is the Honble Minister in-charge of the Ministry of Cultural Affairs.

The functions of the Foundation are :

(a) To preserve historical folk arts and crafts.

(b) To arrange training for artisans.

(c) To set up Folk Arts and Craft Museums in Various parts of the country.

(d) To build up an "Artisans’ Village" at Sonargaon in Narayangonj.

(e) To arrange research in folk arts and crafts and to publish information thereof.

(f) To preserve objects of folk arts and crafts and encourage regarding traditional folk arts and crafts.

(g) To make plans for promotion of folk arts and crafts and to implement it.

(h) To help and co-operate any person or institution engaged in research of folk arts and crafts.

(i) To assist the Government in preparing rules for the development of folk arts and crafts and to advise the Government, local authority or any institution regarding any matter relating to it.

(j) To take joint venture in this subject with any national or international folk arts and crafts institutions with prior permission of the Government.

(k) And any other such functions which are supplementary or relating to the above functions.

3.2.1.8. Bangla Academy :

It is stated earlier (see 2) that during the British colonial rule (1757-1947) and the Pakistani military hegemony after 1947, Bangladesh was culturally handicapped. Attempts were taken at that time, to divert Bangalee culture to different directions. Rabindra songs were discouraged and stopped in Radio and Television. The Pakistani ruler in 1948 proposed to declare Urdu, the language of the minority west Pakistani people, as the only state language of Pakistan, ignoring the claim of Bangla, the language of the majority. It was strongly protested by the students of Dhaka University upon whom the Pakistani police opened fire and murdered a number of Bangalee students on 21st February 1952. This occurrence infuriated the whole Bangalee nation who launched a strong movement to save the language of Bangla from Pakistani aggression. This historic movement is known as Language Movement of 1952.

After this, the Pakistani rulers came to senses. They were compelled to declare both Urdu and Bangla as the state languages of Pakistan. After that, for the development of state languages, two Academies were set up --one in West Pakistan, for the development of Urdu, and the other in

East Pakistan (now Bangladesh), for the development of Bangla. Both Academies were placed under the Provincial Governments. In addition to that the central Government of Pakistan under its own control set up another institute in Dhaka for development of Bangla which was named a "Kendrya Bangla Unnayan Board" (Central Board for Development of Bangla). These two institutions were going on working in their respective fields. However, after the Liberation, the Government of Bangladesh, developed Bangla Academy to a greater extent and expanded its scope of activities. The Central Board was also merged with the Academy on 17th May, 1972. The Government of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh declared Bangla Academy as an autonomous institution by an Ordinance No. XIX of 1978. It is administered by a "Karja Nirbahi Parishad" (Management Board) constituted by the Government.

(1) The functions of the academy shall be :

(a) To develop, foster and promote the Bangla language, literature and culture in accordance with the national aspirations:

(b) To facilitate the introduction of Bangla language in all spheres of life in Bangladesh ;

(c) To translate, coin, prepare, adopt, develop and popularise Bangla vocabulary for foreign words and phrases scientific, technical and official terms ;

(d) To produce, translate and make available in the Bangla language suitable reading materials including advanced treatise on the various branches of science and technology as well as reference works, dictionaries, bibliographies and encyclopedia ;

(e) To make arrangement for research on development of the Bengali language and literature and for that purpose to enter into contract with experts and to maintain close relationship with the universities and other organizations ;

(f) To set up branches of the Academy within Bangladesh with a view to fostering research literary, cultural and other activities ;

(g) To render financial help to the indigent but meritorious Bangalee writers and research workers ;

(h) To engage individuals or organizations or both for undertaking specific work for the Academy ;

(i) To award prizes and reward to persons who, in the opinion of the Parishad have made notable contributions to the upliftment of the Bangla language and literature or to the study of science ;

(j) To organize, create or abolish Divisions of the Academy and to control their activities ;

To determine the terms and conditions of service of the employees of the Academy other than he employees on deputation from Government service ;

(l) To confer the honour of being a Patron Fellow, Life Member or Member of the Academy on any person who is, in the opinion of the Parishad, fit to be so honoured ;

(m) To do such other acts and things as may necessary to be done in connection with the performance of the aforesaid functions.

2. Without prejudice to the provisions of sub-section (1) the Government may direct the Academy to take over the functions of organizations engaged in the cultivation of the Bangla language, literature or culture set up under statute, resolution, order or instrument of the Government ; and organizations shall vest in the Academy.

3.2.1.9. Nazrul Institute :

Kazi Nazrul Islam is our national Poet. His contribution in all branches of Bangla literature is unlimited. Poetry, novel, drama, story, rhyme, essay, song -- all branches have become rich with his writings. During his life time no serious attempt was undertaken to collect and publish his all writings. Later, it was felt necessary to collect his all writings and to undertake research on his works. So, an Ordinance No. XXXIX was promulgated on 12th June 1984 to provide for the establishment of the Nazrul Institute The administration of the affairs of the institute vest in a 7-member

"Board of Trustees".

The functions of the institute are :

(a) To promote the study of the works of the poet.

(b) To collect the poet’s songs and other works from home and abroad and to compile, preserve and publish them,

(c) To make necessary arrangement for research on, and publication of, the literature of the poet and for publicity thereof,

(d) To organize conferences, lectures, debates and seminars on matters relating to contributions of the poet on sangeet, literature and in other fields.

(e) To establish library of books, records, tapes, and other preservative ensemble relating to Nazrul sangeet and literature.

(f) To prepare musical notation for propagation of Nazrul sangeet in their true spirit, style and system and to supervise their presentation in acceptable standard in gramophone records, commercial tapes, films and books of published notation in Bangladesh.

(g) To provide for proper training in Nazrul sangeet and recitation of the Nazrul poems.

(h) To award prizes and rewards to authors who, in the opinion of the Institute, have made significant contributions in the field of research on the works of the poet.

(i) To do such other acts and things as may be considered necessary for carrying out the purposes of the Ordinance.

3.2.1.10. National Book Centre :

The educational and cultural progress of a country is directly dependent upon the supply of suitable reading materials in its languages for all levels of readers. This is particularly true in the context of new Asia where literacy is fast spreading and where national languages are being made the media of instruction and are also assuming the status of official languages. The supply of reading material, in its turn, depends upon the book awareness in a country which must be promoted through an effective agency. In recognition of these need the Government constituted a commission to prepare a report with proper recommendations. According to its recommendation the Government set up a National Book Centre as an autonomous institution in 1960 with a view to developing the book industry early years the institution was run following by-laws framed on 22nd December 1965 which was finally ratified by the Government of Bangladesh with necessary modifications vide a Gazette Notification of 20th November 1995. The institution however, is autonomous in character, controlled by the Government through a 17-member "Parichalona Board" (Management Board) with the Secretary, Ministry of Cultural Affairs, as its Chairman.

The functions of the National Book Centre are as under :

(a) To collect and publish statistical and bibliographical information on reading materials ;

(b) To investigate the tastes and needs of the reading public and publish its report.

(c) To improve book production and distribution methods;

(d) To create facilities for wider and more discriminating interest in books among all sections of the population ;

(e) To make arrangement for exhibition of current and rare books ;

(f) To publish book-lists and readers’ guides and other comprehensive annotated lists of books produced in the country ;

(g) To undertake research and collect information on different subjects pertaining to books, and to publish its results.

(h) To make arrangement to create interest among the young readers towards book.

(i) To establish library at the centre and arrange reading facility there in.

(j) To create consciousness for the improvement of library service.

(k) To arrange and control seminar, symposium, workshop and book-fair on national level and also with prior permission from the Government on international level.

(l) To make arrangement to award the best publisher with a view to encouraging book publication.

(m) To make arrangement to award the best composer to encourage promotion of printing industry in a befitting manner.

(n) To advise the Government in any matter relating to book-publication.

(o) To perform any other work in relation to above subjects.

3.2.1.11. Tribal Cultural Institutes at (a) Rangamati (b) Khagrachhari (c) Bandarban (d) Birisiri (Netrakona) :

In Bangladesh, besides the Bangalees, about one million tribal people live.

These tribals are descendants of primitive races. Twenty seven communities of tribals have so far been distinctly identified. The major communities are Chakma, Marma, Tanchangya, Tripura, Mro, Khumi, Chak, Lushai, Pankhua, Bawm, Khyang, Garo, Hajong, Koach, Banai, Hadi, Dalui, Manipuri, Khasi,

Santal etc. Except the Santals, as stated earlier, all the other tribals are descendants of Mongoloid race and they live in the hilly border areas of south-east and north-east of Bangladesh. On the contrary, the Santals are the descendants of the Austric race, and they live in the plain lands of west and north-west of the country. Their distribution in district-wise shown below :

(a) Rangamati, Khagrachhari, Bandarban -- the three hilly districts of south-east Bangladesh. Chakma, Marma, Tanchangya, Tripura, Mro,Khumi, Chak, Lushai,Pankhua, Bawm, Khyang.

(b) Sylhet -- the north-east hilly district of Bangladesh. Manipuri, Khasi

(c) Mymensingh, Netrakona, Tangail -- three northern districts. Garo, Hajong, Koach,Banai, Hadi, Dalui.

(d) Rajshahi, Naogaon, Rangpur, Dinajpur -- the four districts of west and

north-west area of Bangladesh. Santal

After the Liberation of the country, particularly in the late Seventies, the Government of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh decided to establish several Tribal Cultural Institutes in the tribal areas of the country.

Accordingly, the above mentioned four institutes have been set up in the tribal populated areas and two projects are undergoing for establishment of two more institutes -- one in Rajshahi and the other in Sylhet.

The aims and objectives of these institutions are :

(a) Carrying out research about the ways of life of the tribal people and their customs and practices with highlighting the common elements that exist between the tribal people and the people of the other parts of the country, so that, they could be brought in the mainstream of our national and cultural life.

(b) Preservation and protection of their traditional culture.

(c) Establishing galleries for exhibition of their cultural heritage.

(h) Holding performances in and outside the country with their own artistes.

(e) Managing training course to train-up the new artistes.

(f) Any other such complementary or supplementary works.

3.2.1.12. Cox’s Bazar Cultural Centre :

Cox’s Bazar is the southernmost district of Bangladesh. It stands on the bank of the Bay of Bengal. Its long sea-shore is full of natural beauty.

Travelers from abroad rush there and enjoy its scene. The cultural activities of the people of this area is attractive. The majority of its population is Bangalee. The Rakhains, a small community of tribals, also live there. The culture of this area, therefore, is the admixture of Bangalee and Tribal. With a view to preserving and promoting the culture of the people of this area, the Government of Bangladesh recently, has undertaken a new project to establish "Cox’s Bazar Cultural Centre", where culture of both the Bangalees and the Rakhains will be nurtured and all steps be taken to promote it.

3.2.2 Ministry of Women and Children Affairs :

3.2.2.1. Bangladesh Shishu Academy (Bangladesh Children Academy) :

Of the total population of the country nearly half are children. They are the future helmsmen of the country. If they are properly educated and trained up from their childhood, the future of the country and the nation would be glorious and prosperous. So with a view to provide them with facilities for manifestation of their dormant faculty this Academy has been established in 1976. Children of all section of the society in the Dhaka city were made members of the Academy through their respective schools, and were given training in the fields of fine and performing arts. They were divided into several groups in consideration of their age and subject.

Competitions were organized among the groups and the best performers were given precious awards. They are sent to foreign countries in order to present their performances there. It brought a good result. The Government, therefore, started to create more branch institutions in the district towns, so that children of local areas can get this benefit. By now, 64 branch institutions have been established in all district towns.

3.2.3. Ministry of Science and Technology :

3.2.3.1. National Museum of Science and Technology :

The National Museum of Science and Technology in Dhaka was established in 1965 under the Science and Technology Division. In the early stage it was started with only one gallery in a hired building. Later on, it was shifted from place to place in hired buildings. From 1977 its developmental activities were started. In 1984, the Government of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh took a project to construct a large building with all facilities to accommodate a most modern science museum. The work of construction of this building was completed in 1987 and the museum has been shifted to this new building at Agargaoan in Dhaka. The National Museum of Science and Technology is primarily responsible to popularise and generate awareness about science and technology among the masses and particularly students. In its modern role as a science education centre, the Museum caters for non-formal science education by providing for facilities of various science instruments. It imports visual education to students, teachers and other visitors to promote in their minds an interest of science and technology.

Function :

The broad functions of the National Museum of Science and Technology are as under :

(a) To bring out the importance of science and its contribution to civilization

(b) To portray the history of science and Technology ;

(c) To keep people informed about the country’s nature, natural resources, and scientific research programmes ;

(d) To supplement science education in school and college ;

(e) To encourage the young in scientific innovations ;

(f) To extend co-operations to different science clubs and innovators of the country and introduce their works to the public ;

(g) To organize science fair on national basis and assist allied organizations.

3.2.4. Ministry of Information :

3.2.4.1. National Broadcasting Authority (Radio and Television) :

The two media of mass communication -- Radio and Television, were introduced in Indian subcontinent during the British rule. The centres of these two media were set up first in Delhi and Calcutta. In 1947 when Pakistan was established, their centres were also set up in Dhaka, the then provincial capital of East Pakistan. After the independence of Bangladesh both the media were brought under the administrative control of the "National Broadcasting Authority" founded by the Government through the Ordinance No. XXXII of 1986.

The functions of the Authority shall be :

(a) To control, manage, operate and develop the Radio and Television in Bangladesh ;

(b) To implement policy of the Government in respect of Radio and Television broadcasting ;

(c) To prepare plans and programmes for development of Radio and Television and, with the prior approval of the Government, execute such plans and programmes ;

(d) To establish and maintain institutes for the instruction and training of persons engaged or likely to be engaged in any activities connected with broadcasting Radio and Television ;

(e) To make all purchases of plant, machinery and stores for Radio and Television within or without the country in accordance with the procedure laid down by the Government and to dispose of such plant, machinery and stores ;

(f) Subject to the approval of the Government, to negotiate and sign contracts and agreements with any foreign organization in respect of any matter relating to Radio and Television ;

(g) To associate with any international organization engaged in any activities connected with Radio and Television ;

(h) To exercise all such powers and do all acts and things as may be necessary for the efficient control, management, operation and development of Radio and Television ;

(i) To do all other matters and things connected with, or ancillary to, any of the aforesaid functions.

(2) The Authority, in the discharge of its functions, shall be guided on questions of policy by such general or special instructions as may, from time to time, be given by the Government.

3. 2. 4. 2. National Institute of Mass Communication :

With a view to improving technical quality of Radio and Television the Government of Bangladesh established the "National Institute of Mass Communication" in Dhaka in 1982. It is an autonomous institution financed by the Government.

Its functions are as under :

(a) To make all measures for essential improvement of Radio and Television broadcasting services by imparting in-service training to programme, engineering and news personnel

(b) To undertake research programmes related to electronics.

(c) To offer advisory and consultancy services to Radio and Television.

(d) To establish contact with other organizations, both national and international, having function similar to those mentioned in this paragraph.

(e) And any such other functions relating to Radio and Television as may be instructed, from time to time, by the Government.

3.2.4.3. The Press Institute of Bangladesh :

Press is a strong media of information in a country. All democratic states of the world, therefore, acknowledge its full freedom and patronize for its development. The Government of the People?s Republic of Bangladesh with a view to imparting the in-service training of the journalists and to raising the standard of their profession, established the Press Institute of Bangladesh in Dhaka in 1976. It is an autonomous institution and is administered by a 18-member "Management Board," constituted by the Government.

The functions of the Institute shall be :

(a) To provide in-service training to working journalists and to news personnel working under the Government or any local authority;

(b) To undertake research programmes on Journalism both national and international, to publish data and information relating thereto;

(c) To offer advisory and consultancy services to any newspaper or news agency;

(d) To establish contact with other organizations, both national and international, having functions similar to those mentioned in this paragraph;

(e) To set up a morgue with a micro-film unit and a newspaper reference centre;

(f) To advise the Government on any matter relating to Press that may be referred to it by the Government;

(g) To do such other acts and things as may be necessary to be done for the uplift of the standard of journalism in Bangladesh.

4. INSTRUMENTS OF CULTURAL POLICY

4.1. Financing of cultural activities :

The Government of the People?s Republic of Bangladesh as stated earlier, is of unitary system. All expenditure of the Government therefore is met-up from one fund. The budget is prepared for a financial year which runs from 1st July to 30th June. In this budget the Government allocate money on the head of Ministries. Each Ministry, then, distribute the required amount of money among the institutions under its control. The cultural activities in Bangladesh are undertaken by institutions most of which are under the control of the Ministry of Cultural Affairs. The Shishu Academy on the other hand, is under the Ministry of Women and Children Affairs, the Science Museum is under the Ministry of Science and Technology and the Bangladesh Radio, Television, National Institute of Mass Communication and Press Institute of Bangladesh are under the Ministry of Information. However, in the following table the Government allocation to the above mentioned Ministries for the years mentioned below, have been shown.

The amount in figure is shown in lacs.

1992-93 1993-94 1994-95

Sl. No. Names of Ministries Revenue Annual Development Total Revenue Annual

Development Total Revenue Annual Development Total

1. Ministry of Cultural Affairs (for Institutions under its Control)

3694.14 1155.00 4849.14 2046.04 1500.00 3546.04 2270.38 1475.00 3745.38

2. Ministry of Women and Children Affairs (for Shishu Academy) 123.00

200.00 323.00 128.00 340.00 468.00 137.00 460.00 597.00

3. Ministry of Science and Technology (for National Museum of Science and

Technology) 37.00 No 37.00 40.00 No 40.00 44.00 100.00 144.00

4. Ministry of Information (for Radio, Television, National Institute of

Mass Communication and Press Institute of Bangladesh) 5256.35 4251.00

9507.35 7699.97 7142.00 14841.97 6264.95 8069.00 14333.95

The amount in figure is shown in lacs.

1995-96 1996-97 1997-98

Sl. No. Names of Ministries Revenue Annual Development Total Revenue Annual

Development Total Revenue Annual Development Total

1. Ministry of Cultural Affairs (for Institutions under its Control)

2315.75 1244.00 3559.75 2527.22 2226.00 4753.22 2536.11 2510.00 5046.11

2. Ministry of Women and Children Affairs (for Shishu Academy) 142.00

293.00 435.00 151.00 400.00 551.00 154.00 500.00 654.00

3. Ministry of Science and Technology (for National Museum of Science and

Technology) 55.00 200.00 255.00 60.00 300.00 360.00 53.50 200.00 253.50

4. Ministry of Information (for Radio, Television, National Institute of

Mass Communication and Press Institute of Bangladesh) 6539.52 2427.00

8966.52 8380.20 3492.00 11872.20 7164.20 3468.00 10632.20

In addition to the above allocation from the Government fund for culture, the Universities of Bangladesh are also spending money for their Departments of Performing and Fine Arts. The account of this expenditure is not separately maintained in the budged of the Universities. So, it could not be shown in the table. Similarly, the Ministry of Education is also allocating funds to schools and Colleges where cultural education is taught along with general education. This account can not be separated from other expenditure and, therefore, it also could not be shown in the above table. It is to be mentioned here that the main allocation of the Government fund in Bangladesh is made on revenue head. The annual development head, on the other hand, is an additional one, on which allocation is provided with the availability of surplus money. >From the above comparative statement of the Government allocation of funds for cultural institutions on revenue head shown in table-1, it is found that the allocation is increasing every year.

4.2. Legislation :

The state policy of Bangladesh regarding the national culture has legal foundation and is clearly mentioned in Articles 23 and 24 of the constitution of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh, passed by the Constituent Assembly on 4-11-1972.

Article 23 :

The State shall adopt measures to conserve the cultural traditions and heritage of the people, and so to foster and improve the national language, literature and the arts that all sections of the people are afforded the opportunity to contribute towards and to participate in the enrichment of the national culture.

Article 24

The state shall adopt measures for the protection against disfigurement, damage or removal of all monuments, objects or places of special artistic or historic importance or interest.

Further, under the above legal authority, the Government have framed rules for preservation and protection of antiquities of the country. The Department of Archaeology and Museums, has been given authority to execute and implement this rules.

Besides the above constitution and fundamental rules, the Government either have made or going to make rules and regulations for each and every institutions mentioned above which have been set up to undertake cultural activities, so that, they can work freely with their own legal authority.

5. SECTORIAL POLICIES

5.1. Cultural Heritage :

Ancient historical monuments lying scattered all over the country are controlled by the Department of Archaeology alone. Besides this, excavation of sites of ancient civilization and dealing of antiquities are also controlled exclusively by this Department. A few specimen of Mahasthan, Maynamati and Paharpur sites have been given on permanent loan, to the National Museum, for display. Other antiquities like sculpture (of stone, metal, wood) terra-cotta-plaque or figurine, coin, copperplate, stone inscription, pottery, arm and armour, objects of decorative art, ivory work, furniture, house-hold utensils, textiles, farman, old manuscript and so on, which are of one hundred years old, collected from earth-surface or chance digging, are considered to be the properties of the museums. The National Museum of Bangladesh is the Chief Museum in the country to collect, preserve and display these objects of art heritage. Beside the National Museum, there are three more museums which are also functioning in the same purposes. They are :

(a) Varendra Research Institute, run by the University of Rajshahi.

(b) Dinajpur Museum, run by Dinajpur Municipality.

(c) Faridpur Museum, run by Faridpur Municipality.

Instruments and apparatus of science and technology, and also of technological developments, are the properties of the Museum of Science and Technology. The National Museum also put on display some objects of Zoology and Botany which are basically properties of Science Museum. The objects of fine arts are collected and displayed both by the National Museum and the Shilpakala Academy. The Government have decided to set up a National Art Gallery to control all objects of fine Arts. But this will take time to complete the task.

5.2. Cultural Education and Training :

In Bangladesh, arrangement for cultural education, has been made in school, collage and universities, and also in organizational institutions. In primary schools music, dance, sewing and painting are taught two hours in a week. In the secondary level of education a separate group has been opened in the syllabus.

In some Collages and Universities cultural education is provided only to the regular students but have no training courses. The training courses are provided in the organizational institutions.

Shilpakala Academy organises training courses in all branches of performing arts. Joy Bangla Sanskritic Sangha (a private cultural club) also provides training for Drama and recitations only.

5.3. Performing Arts :

Performing arts are the major field of culture in our country. In primary level of education music is common in the syllabus and dancing is also taught in some schools. Annual cultural competition is organized in every school and prizes are awarded to the winners. National, district and thana based cultural competition among school students are also held every year.

The students of which schools prove their proficiency in the competition are marked with credit. The result is that each school takes special interest to train up their students in this field. In higher secondary level of education, a course of performing arts has been initiated. The College of Performing Arts, at Muhammadpur, Dhaka, is set up by the government for this purpose. In the Universities of Dhaka, Chittagong and Jahangir Nagar, there are Departments of performing arts, where education, up to postgraduate degree is provided.

5.4. Fine Arts :

In Bangladesh, the fine arts attained highest impetus. In primary school among all other cultural subjects, fine arts is taught with greater importance. Painting on Liberation War of 1971, has become a subject of common interest of all classes of students. For study of this subject in the higher secondary level two Colleges of Fine Arts have been established, one at Chittagong and the other at Khulna. The earliest College of Fine Arts, established in Dhaka in 1948, has now been made an Institute of Dhaka University, where graduation and post-graduation degrees are offered. The Universities of Chittagong and Rajshahi have also opened Departments where education up to post-graduation is provided.

5.5. Visual Arts :

N/A

5.6. Literature and literary production :

N/A

5.7. Music :

Considering the cultural tradition of Bangladesh special attention is paid to music. The musicians of national grade, are regarded as honourable personalities in the country. The old and unable reputed musicians are granted regular state pensions.

6. CULTURAL INDUSTRIES

6.1. Book Publishing :

Book publishing in Bangladesh is performed mainly by the private publishers. The Government have also set up two institutions viz., (a) The Bangla Academy and (b) Jatiya Grantha Kendra ( National Book Centre), to improve this sector. Bangla Academy collects manuscripts of books from the reputed writers in lieu of remuneration and publish them. These books are mainly recommended for colleges and Universities of Bangladesh and which are written in Bangla language. The number of publications of Bangla Academy from 1973 to 1997 is 1085.

6.2. Press :

Considering the Press a strong media of information, the government of Bangladesh paid importance to its promotion. Although direct subsidy is not given to the Press, the Government have extended indirect assistance to it.

A Press Institute has been set up by the Government in Dhaka in order to provide in-service training to working journalists and to news personnel working under the Government or any local authority. This helps a good deal in uplifting the standard of journalism is the country. Papers were also supplied to its owners on concession rate for printing "The Dailies" and "periodicals". The result is that the number of news papers increased rapidly after Eighties. Their numbers are given below :

Daily - 302 Half weekly - 5 Weekly - 549 Fortnightly - 163 Monthly - 346 Two-Monthly - 7 Quarterly - 65 Half Yearly - 3

Yearly - 8 ------------------------------------ Total = 1348

6.3. Broadcasting :

Radio and Television in Bangladesh are the Government institutions. They are the two branches of the "National Broadcasting Authority" established by the Government of Bangladesh through an Ordinance No. XXXII of 1986. Both Radio and Television are directly controlled by the Ministry of Information, and are financed from the Government fund. Expenditure of all programming activities and remuneration of artistes are met up from their funds. For the promotion of the Broadcasting industry the Government has set up the "National Institute of Mass Communication" where in-service training are imparted to the technical staffs of both the sectors.

6.4. Sound recording industry :

N/A

6.5. Cinema and film industry :

The Cinema films are produced, in Bangladesh, by the private producers. More than 20 producing companies are working in this field. For the development of this industry, the Government of Bangladesh has established the Film Development Corporation (FDC) with autonomous character, but financed by the Government. It has a full-fledged film studio equipped with the latest equipments. Any producer can use it on payment of fixed charges. The FDC also selects new artists and film stars, and impart professional training to them in the Film Institute, set up recently within the FDC. To encourage quality film making, the Government has introduced national film awards and established an institute of film Archive. The Government also grants subsidy to standard quality films every year. The amount of this grant for last few years are given below : --

1993-94 Taka 45.00 Lacs,

1994-95 Taka 22.00 Lacs,

1995-96 Taka 33.00 Lacs,

1996-97 Taka 45.00 Lacs.

7. CULTURAL DEVELOPMENT

The traditional culture of Bangladesh is very old. Most of the people of the country used to live in the villages. The towns were very few in number. As a result, its culture was village based. The urban cultural had no effect in the society. In the medieval period (7-16th Century A. D), the people of Bangladesh were, economically, very rich. They used to led an easy-life. After the harvest in December they had no work till June. This long six months time was their leisure period. During this period, the bull-fight, cock-fight, nauka-baich (boat race) etc. Most of the villagers enjoy these cultural performances. With the increase of the number of population in the country as well as in the villages, the number of attendance of these cultural performances is increasing ; but the rate of increase is not maintained any where. So, it could not be mentioned in the table-2. The modern theatre, museum, public library, and cinema have been introduced in our country in the current twentieth century. With the increase of literacy rate in the country the number of visitors of theatre, museum and cinema, and the readers of libraries are increasing. In the table-2 below, the number of visitors or readers (in related cases) is shown year wise (financial year July-June). Although the public awareness towards cultural activities are, in actual sense, increasing, the figures in table-2 do not indicate it, here the numbers are found ups and downs. This happened due to closure of the institutes for certain periods for unavoidable circumstances.

Comparative statement of annual attendance of visitors/readers of cultural institutions :

Sl. No. Name of Institutions 1993-94 1994-95 1995-96 1996-97

1. Bangladesh National Museum, Dhaka 6,47,756 6,06,952 4,72,652 6,77,711 2. Ahsan Manjil Museum, Dhaka 2,99,831 2,44,486 1,84,716 2,46,236 3. Osmani Museum, Sylhet 18,360 13,997 9,667 13,535 4. Zia Memorial Museum, Chittagong 3,21,830 2,60,944 1,99,575 2,02,341 5. Bangladesh Lok O Karushilpa Foundation (Bangladesh Folk Arts and Crafts Foundation), Narayangonj 1,90,359 1,92,687 1,97,337 2,00,347 6. National Museum of Science and Technology, Dhaka 1,55,219 1,21,416, 1,30,264 1,42,401 7. Central Public Library, Dhaka 8,19,712 8,87,886 8,10,971 8,63,681

8. Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Memorial MuseumStarted from 14th August, 1994 -- 4,99,587 5,69,287 10,56,972 9. Mukti Juddha Jadughar (Liberation War Museum)Started from 26th March,1996 -- -- 15,188 59,746

8. INTERNATIONAL CULTURAL CO-OPERATION

Cultural relations with foreign countries fall within the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Cultural Affairs. Bangladesh has established relation with all the states of the world except Israel. So far, forty seven embassies/mission offices have been set up. One mission have their own cultural officer and eight missions have press officers. Cultural activities abroad are organized by these embassies and missions and cultural consulates

The South Asian Regional Co-operation (SAARC) formed by seven neighbouring countries such as Bangladesh, India, Pakistan, Srilanka, Nepal, Bhutan and Maldives, has mentioned the importance of cultural co-operation among its aims and objectives. Every year (SAARC) meeting is organized in any of these countries and the famous artistes of each country are invited to present their performances. In the field of Fine Arts, a co-operation has been established among Asian countries. The Asian Biennial of Fine Arts exhibition is held in Dhaka where the artists of Asian countries participate and their works are put on display on competition basis. The winners are awarded with prizes and certificates. Bangladesh has bilateral cultural agreements with forty countries of the world (twenty three countries of Asia, nine countries of Africa and eight countries of Europe).

9. ADDRESSES

9. 1. Ministries :

< Ministry of Cultural Affairs > Building No-6, 10th Floor, Secretariat Building, Dhaka, Bangladesh. Tel : 88-02-868977, 88-02-869497, 88-02-866706, Fax : 88-02-860290

< Ministry of Women and Children Affairs > Building No-6, 3rd Floor, Secretariat Building, Dhaka, Bangladesh. Tel : 88-02-861012, 88-02-867550, Fax : 88-02- 864686

< Ministry of Science and Technology > Building No-6, 9th Floor, Secretariat Building, Dhaka, Bangladesh. Tel : 88-02-866144, 88-02-866687, Fax : 88-02-869606

< Ministry of Information > Building No-4, 8th Floor, Secretariat Building, Dhaka, Bangladesh. Tel : 88-02-866144, 88-02-866687, Fax : 88-02- 869606

9.2. Government Institutions :

< Department of Archeology and Museums :> 22/1, Babar Road, Mohammadpur, Dhaka, Bangladesh. Tel : 88-02-327608, 88-02-812715

< Department of National Archives and Library> National Archives and Library Building Sher-e-Bangla Nagar, Agargoan, Dhaka, Bangladesh. Tel : 88-02-326572, Fax : 88-02-9118704

< Department of Copyright > National Archives and Library Building (2nd Floor) Sher-e-Bangla Nagar, Agargoan, Dhaka, Bangladesh. Tel : 88-02- 9119632, 88-02-9119380

< Bangladesh Central Public Library> 10, Kazi Nazrul Islam Avenue, Shahbagh, Dhaka, Bangladesh. Tel : 88-02-500819, 88-02-500839

< Bangladesh Betar (Radio)> 121, Kazi Nazrul Islam Avenue, Shahbagh, Dhaka, Bangladesh. Tel : 88-02-865294, Fax : 88-02-862021, 88-02-817850

< Bangladesh Television> Television Building, Rampura, Dhaka, Bangladesh. Tel : 88-02-866606, Fax : 88-02- 832927

< Government Arts College, Chittagong> Badsha Mia Road, Chittagong, Bangladesh.

9. 3. Autonomous Institutions :

< Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy > Segunbagica, Dhaka, Bangladesh. Tel : 88-02-9562836, 88-02-9562853, 88-02- 9562801-5, Fax :88-02-9562853

< Bangladesh National Museum > Shahbagh, Dhaka, Bangladesh. Tel : 88-02-869303, 88-02-822687, 88-02-862153

< Bangladesh Lok O Karushilpa Foundation > Sonargoan, Narayangonj, Bangladesh. Tel : 88-02-9716960/331

< Bangla Academy > Ramna, Dhaka, Bangladesh. Tel : 88-02-869577, 88-02-869583, Fax : 88-02-863352

< Nazrul Institute> Kabi Bhaban, House No-330-B, Road-28 (old), Dhanmondi, R/A, Dhaka, Bangladesh. Tel : 88-02- 811621, 88-02- 9114500, Fax : 88-02- 9118051

< National Book Centre> 5/c, Bangabandhu Avenue, Dhaka, Bangladesh. Tel : 88-02- 9555743, 88-02- 9567896, 88-02-9555745

< Tribal Cultural Institute > District : Rangamati, Bangladesh. Tel : 88-0351-3389

< Tribal Cultural Institute > District : Bandarbans, Bangladesh. Tel : 88-0361-424

< Tribal Cultural Academy, Birisiri > P.O. Birisiri (Via Susang Durgapur), District : Netrakona, Bangladesh. Tel : 88- 0951-297/42

< Cox?s Bazar Cultural Centre > District : Cox?s Bazar, Bangladesh. Tel : 88-0341-4517

< Institute of Fine Arts > University of Dhaka, Dhaka, Bangladesh. Tel : 88-02-9661900-59/6270

< Varendra Research Institute > Rajshahi University, Rajshahi, Bangladesh. Department of Fine Arts, Rajshahi University Rajshahi, Bangladesh.

< Department of Fine Arts, Chittagong University > Chittagong, Bangladesh.

9. 4. Private and Other Institutions :

< Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Memorial Museum > Road No.-32, Dhanmondi, Dhaka, Bangladesh. Tel : 88-02-810046

< Muktijuddha Jadughar (Liberation War Museum)> 5, Segunbagicha, Dhaka, Bangladesh. Tel : 88-02-9559091, Fax :88-02-9559092

< Bulbul Lalitakala Academy.> Wiseghat, Dhaka, Bangladesh. Tel : 88-02-235451

< College of Arts & Crafts > Khulna, Bangladesh.

10. SOURCES

a. The constitution of the People?s Republic of Bangladesh.

b. Statistical year book of Bangladesh -- 1996 seventeenth edition, Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics.

c. Annual Development Programme (ADP) of Planning Commission, Government of Bangladesh (for the Years 1992-93, 1993-94, 1994-95, 1995-96, 1996-97 & 1997-98)

d. Demands for Grants and Appropriations (Details) Non-Development (for the Years 1992-93, 1993-94, 1994-95, 1995-96, 1996-97 & 1997-98).

e. UNESCO World Conference on cultural Policy, Mexico City, 26 July -- 6th August 1982, Problems and Prospects.

f. The World Book Encyclopedia, U. S. A., 1989 Vol. 4.

g. Meet Bangladesh (Third Edition) 1987 Published by Department of Film and Publication, Ministry of Information, Government of Bangladesh.

h. Antiquity Act of 1968 (Act No. XIV of 1968 as amended upto 1976).

i. Treasure Trove Act of 1878 (Act No. VI of 1878).

j. Bangladesh the Mosaic in Green, Revised Edition, External Publicity Wing, Ministry of Information).

k. Archeological Works Code -- 1938.

l. The National Archives Ordinance of 1983 (Ordinance No. XXXIX of 1983).

m. The Copyright Ordinance (Ordinance No. XXXIV of 1962 as amended upto 1978).

n. Bangladesh Central Public Library : Introducing (Published by Department of Public Library, 1996).

o. The Nazrul Institute Ordinance of 1984 (Ordinance No. XXXIX of 1984).

p. The Bangla Academy Ordinance of 1978 (Ordinance No. XIX of 1978).

q. Bangladesh National Museum Ordinance of 1983 (Ordinance No. LIII of 1983).

r. National Broadcasting Authority Ordinance of 1986 (Ordinance No. XXXII of 1986).

s. Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy Act of 1989 (Act No. 22 of 1989)

t. Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (Section-2) Resolution No. INF/4E-29/76 (Pt)/23750 Dated : 4th November, 1976.

11. FOOT NOTES

This monograph is based on data from (a) the Constitution of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh, (b) The Ordinances and Acts promulgated by the Government of Bangladesh for the establishment of various cultural institutions and (c) Books and Reports listed in the source mentioned above. The monograph is prepared by Md. Abdul Haque, Cultural Adviser, Ministry of Cultural Affairs, and Coordinator from Bangladesh with active assistance of Dr. Md. Nizamuddin, Keeper, Bangladesh National Museum, now Officer on Special Duty, Ministry of Cultural Affairs, Government of Bangladesh.