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Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has called upon stakeholders in the entertainment industry to create films that contribute positively to society, families, and the nation at large, fostering values of patriotism and civic responsibility.
She also extended her appreciation to those involved in producing impactful films that have rekindled interest in cinema among the masses and took them back to cinema halls.
The prime minister further emphasised the importance of producing films centred around children, as they play a crucial role in shaping the future of both the individuals and the country. She stated, "We are providing grants to support the production of meaningful films."
She made the remarks as she virtually laid foundation stone of the Bangladesh Film Development Corporation (BFDC) complex construction project from Ganabhaban on Sunday. This initiative reflects a dedicated effort to propel the film industry forward.
During the same event, she inaugurated the newly constructed facilities of the Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC) and the Information Commission.
Acknowledging the historical challenges faced by Bangladesh's film industry, the prime minister underscored issues such as piracy, violence, and lack of originality that had plagued the sector. She lamented the decline in quality following the disappearance of family-oriented and life-affirming films after 1975.
Prime Minister Hasina highlighted the significance of child-friendly films, noting their potential to facilitate children's education and learning through the medium of cinema. She stressed that movies wield a substantial influence over young minds, imparting valuable lessons and cultivating positive values. She envisions the film industry to continue its advancement, resonating with the cultural richness of Bangladesh and leaving a positive imprint on the global stage.
"Cinema should serve as a conduit for conveying messages to the general public. Films should guide people's moral compass by distinguishing right from wrong. Cinema holds the power to shape perspectives," she said.
Recalling the industry's challenging past, she underscored her government's commitment to its revitalisation. The transition of films into the digital age, she noted, signifies a significant transformation.
The prime minister highlighted the comprehensive efforts undertaken by her government to nurture the film industry. She cited the development of BFDC, which was established by Bangabandhu, and revealed her mother's pivotal role in encouraging her father (Bangabandhu) to champion the cause of filmmaking in Bangladesh.
Drawing from personal history, Prime Minister Hasina recounted a conversation between her parents during the Pakistan era, where her mother had queried, "Can't Bengalis produce films in Bangladesh?" This query led to her father's initiation of the FDC project once he assumed ministerial responsibilities. Since then, Bangladesh has seen the emergence of numerous films, including noteworthy productions like 'Asiya' and 'Mukh O Mukhosh,' crafted by Bengali talents.
The prime minister said that the establishment of FDC was in accordance with a bill introduced by the Father of the Nation on April 3, 1957.
After independence, a substantial piece of land in Kabirpur, Kaliakair, Gazipur was allocated by the Father of the Nation for the film industry's growth, she said adding that the current government is now embarking on the construction of Bangabandhu Film City, spanning 105 acres and costing Tk 380 crore.
