Bengal Cinema Development Forum (BCDF) began its journey in 2013 to promote young filmmakers with the potential to usher in a new era in Bangladesh's cinema. As a step in that direction, BCDF invited scripts from filmmakers, and after rigorous selection has zeroed in on five scripts which will receive funding. The winners were announced at a press meet at Bengal Shilpalaya in the capital on March 1.

Aspiring filmmakers Ratan Paul, Syeda Nigar Banu, Adnan Kabir, Ashutosh Sujan and Humaira Bilkis will be awarded with financial, technical and logistic supports to finish their films within one year. Moreover, BCDF will also distribute and screen the films as part of the project.

Information Minister Hasanul Haq Inu; director of Bengal Foundation and

project convener Abul Khair; chairperson of the project Luva Nahid Choudhury; filmmakers Nasiruddin Yousuff and Manzar-e-Haseen Murad attended the press meet among others. A bunch of young and enthusiastic filmmakers was also present at the announcement ceremony.

In his speech, Hasanul Haq Inu pledged to do his utmost to help cinema

regain its lost glory. Citing the roles film played in consolidating nationalist movements, Inu said the government was working overtime towards this end. He also announced that a residential film institute would be established outside Dhaka where emerging filmmakers could polish their skills.

He further assured that his ministry will join hands with BCDF so that the project gets quick implementation.

Abul Khair said under this project Bengal Foundation has plans to build and renovate 400 cinema halls in different corners of the country. He also disclosed his plans to build a cultural centre --combining a library, auditorium and cinema hall — in every district.

Among others, Nasiruddin Yousuff, Luva Nahid Choudhury, Manzar-e-Haseen Murad and Nobonita Chowdhury spoke at the press meet.