A new conference centre, dedicated to the memory of Ramesh Chandra Dutta, was inaugurated at the Chayyanat Sangskritik Bhaban on March 1. Noted educationist Professor Zillur Rahamna Siddiqui was the chief guest at the event.

Dancers, with candles in hand, ushered in the guests as artistes Mita Haq, Auditi Muhsin, Laisa Ahmed Lisa and Azizur Rahman Tuhin rendered Anandolokey mangalalokey.

General secretary of Chhayanat, Khayrul Anam Shakil briefed the guests on how construction of the conference centre would not have been possible without the assistance -- financial and moral -- of Captain Mahfuzur Rahman and his family.

Speaking on Ramesh Chandra Dutta, Captain Rahman said, "Born

in Faridpur, Dutta was very active in the movement against the British Raj. An avid follower of Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose, he was incarcerated several times by the Raj. During 'Partition' he chose not to leave the home of his ancestors. In the then East Pakistan, he dedicated his life for betterment of the local underprivileged.

"An ascetic in every sense, Dutta never went the family way. I had the opportunity to get acquainted with him and his values and philosophies left an indelible impression on me. In his final years, against his will, he had to move to West Bengal, India. This remarkable person passed away alone and uncared for in Kolkata in 1987.

"It is unfortunate that the individual who had dedicated himself to our country has always

remained far from the limelight and no initiative to honour him was ever taken. I was keen on dedicating this conference centre to his memory for that reason."

A Fistful of Tagore -- a collection of 14 poems and songs of Tagore -translated by Shafi U Ahmed, was launched at the event. Professor Zillur Rahman Siddiqui unveiled the book.

Ahmed spoke on how Dutta had encouraged him in his endeavour. He also recited an excerpt from the book. President of Chhayanat and Tagore exponent, Dr Sanjida Khatun also spoke on the occasion.

Artistes of Chayyanat -- Azizur Rahman Tuhin, Mita Haq, Laisa Ahmed Lisa and Auditi Muhsin -performed solo songs at the programme.