In the ongoing journey towards building an inclusive Bangladesh, religious and cultural festivals play a pivotal role in fostering unity, harmony, and shared human values. In this spirit, the Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy is set to host a special cultural programme to mark Christmas, the largest religious festival of the Christian community, on 25 December.
The Ministry of Cultural Affairs, in collaboration with the Academy, has organised the event to take place on 24 December, Wednesday, at 6:00 pm on the Nandan Stage of the Academy. The evening promises to illuminate lives with messages of peace, social harmony, and humanistic values, reflecting the essence of the festive season.
Audience members can look forward to a rich repertoire of performances, including carol singing, devotional kirtans, and diverse musical presentations. Participating artists include the choir members of Tejgaon Church: Christopher Gomez, Dilip Mondal, Bijoy Gomez, Rexona Mondal, Jaya Gomez, Biva Gomez, and Subhash Pirich. Additionally, solo performance by Juliet Susmita Baroi is scheduled to captivate the audience.
The evening will also feature live band performances by “Gethsemane Worship” and “F Minor,” adding a contemporary musical dimension to the festivities. Notably, the programme is open to the public, encouraging participation from all communities.
The Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy and the Ministry of Cultural Affairs have long championed the celebration of religious and cultural festivals as a means to promote compassion, creativity, and social cohesion. Last year’s events serve as a testament to this ongoing effort:
| Festival Name | Date | Venue | Main Attraction |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chandratra Joyful Celebration (Eid ul-Fitr) | 30 March 2025 | Nandan Stage | Cultural fair, music, and dance |
| Buddhist Purnima Festival | 10 May 2025 | Nandan Stage & 6 districts | Kirtan, meditation, and cultural exhibitions |
| Anand Utsav (Eid ul-Adha) | 6 June 2025 | Nandan Stage | Music, dance, and children’s workshops |
| Sharadiya Durga Puja | 30 Sept – 1 Oct 2025 | Suhrawardy Udyan & Nandan Stage | Two-day cultural festival, drums and dance |
Through each festival, the Academy strives to celebrate creativity while reinforcing religious tolerance and national cultural heritage. The upcoming Christmas event promises to be a memorable evening for both performers and spectators, uniting participants in joyous celebration and cultural appreciation.