JAHANGIRNAGAR UNIVERSITY : Information and Broadcasting Minister Zahir Uddin Swapon today said films are not merely a source of entertainment but a powerful medium that shapes human perspectives, thoughts and consciousness.
He made the remarks while addressing as the chief guest at a two-day festival marking the birth anniversary of legendary filmmaker Satyajit Ray held at the Zahir Raihan Auditorium of Jahangirnagar University (JU) this morning.
“Films are not just for entertainment; they are a powerful medium to construct human mindset, worldview and consciousness,” he said.
“A creative work be it a film or a book can bring about a profound transformation in human thinking, even a paradigm shift,” he added.
The festival was jointly organised by Jahangirnagar University History and Heritage Society and the Indian Council for Cultural Relations marking the birth anniversary of legendary filmmaker Satyajit Ray.
Highlighting the role of creative individuals, the minister said, “Those involved in communication and creativity play a vital role in shaping how people think and perceive society. Through their work, they influence the mindset of ordinary people and create new perspectives.”
Referring to the subcontinent’s history, he said, “The partition of 1947 has deeply influenced our literature, culture and intellectual sphere. However, such historical impact should not confine our freedom of thought.”
Emphasising openness in creativity, Swapon said, “We must keep our thinking open and reinterpret history and tradition in contemporary contexts. The courage to question and critical thinking are the foundations of true creativity.”
He also called upon institutions working on history and heritage to expand their activities and strengthen engagement with the younger generation.
Referring to Ray’s legacy, the minister said, “The greatest lesson from Satyajit Ray is his humanism and free-thinking spirit, which remains highly relevant today,” urging creative individuals to uphold these values in building a progressive society.
“Cinema is a powerful medium that can deeply influence human thinking and perspective,” he also said, adding that a meaningful film can reshape society much like a powerful book.
Earlier, the minister visited an art exhibition on Satyajit Ray at the venue and signed the visitors’ book.
Acting High Commissioner of India Pawan Badhe, film researcher Moin Uddin Khaled, filmmaker Tanvir Mokammel, actor and director Toukir Ahmed and film analyst Bidhan Ribeiro, teachers, students and film enthusiasts, among others, also spoke at the programme.
