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First anniversary of Guimet protest observed

Cultural Correspondent
On December 25, Gallery Chitrak and Palakar jointly organised a discussion and a drama presentation on the occasion of first anniversary of the movement to protect the artefacts. The programme was held at Gallery Chitrak.
Bangladesh has a rich, diverse culture. Its profoundly rooted heritage is thoroughly reflected in its artefacts, architecture, literature, dance and historical places. We have a rich history of 2500 years and cultural artefacts are our source of pride.
Last year, the day was made memorable in our history. On this day, 189 artefacts were sent to Guimet museum, in Paris for exhibition.
However, no transparency was noted about despatching the artefacts abroad. In protest, the critics, writers, journalists, architects, teachers, art connoisseurs and other members of the society demanded action against those responsible for sending the artefacts out of the country'. They termed the whole process as a major cultural disaster. Seminars, demonstrations and processions organised against sending the artefacts to Paris, the artefacts were sent to Guimet museum. All of a sudden though two terracotta Vishnu Statues around 1500 years old were stolen from Zia International Airport during the shifting oftheartefactstoParis.
■' At* the
Moinuddin Khaled read out a long informative statement which also included some demands. He asked the
authorities to reveal the names of those responsible for removal of the artefacts. He also demanded exemplary punishment for the guilty.
Eminent architect professor Shamsul Wares who was present as a discussant, noted in his speech. “We get importance from the West because of our ancient civilization, history and precious artefacts. The Guimet exhibition was trafficking. It was not an exchange. We should publish a book where all facts will be placed around the artefacts, the paper cutting, procession, demonstration, broachers, and the •wraptae information about , the trafficked artefacts, the publication will help us learn about its importance and invaluable perspective."
Folklorist Shamsuzzaman Khan said, “We should continue this process and the government should bring out an annual report on artefacts location, sources, values, sizes, shapes, identification number and their historical values, so that the people could be more conscious about these valuable assets.”
Renowned archeologist Abul Kalam Mohammad Zakaria presided over the discussion. He stated that the artefacts were not even examined before being sent out. He emphasised raising social awareness against artefacts smuggling.
After the cHscussicn; Pankaj
Pranjaparamita' of Simon Zakaria. The play has been directed by Shamim Sagor.