As a long-time admirer of Mostofa Sarwar Farooki’s remarkable work and his profound impact on Bangladeshi cinema, I am beyond thrilled to witness this new chapter in his illustrious career. His appointment as Cultural Advisor under Nobel Peace Prize winner Muhammad Yunus is a testament to the power of art and creativity in driving societal change.
Renowned Bangladeshi film director, Mostofa Sarwar Farooki, has taken on the role as head of his nation’s Ministry of Cultural Affairs.
In August, Muhammad Yunus, who won the Nobel Peace Prize, was named to head Bangladesh’s temporary government due to Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina leaving the country amid widespread demonstrations. Since this is a transitional administration, Yunus holds the position of Chief Advisor instead of Prime Minister. Farooki, essentially functioning as the Culture Minister, carries the formal title of Cultural Advisor.
On Sunday, Yunus enlarged his government team. Among those inducted during the evening ceremony was Farooki. Globally recognized as one of Bangladesh’s most acclaimed filmmakers, Farooki has had three of his films represent Bangladesh at the Oscars.
Initially, I had my doubts about accepting this proposal. But given that Bangladesh is currently undergoing a reconstruction phase, another part of me felt compelled to give it a shot and potentially bring about some positive changes. Additionally, the prospect of collaborating with Nobel laureate Professor Yunus, who is leading our government at present, was quite enticing. Consequently, I decided to proceed with my agreement. This is what Farooki shared with EbMaster.
One reason Farooki decided to take on the role was his exposure to the work of renowned South Korean filmmaker, Lee Chang-dong. During his tenure, Lee held a position as the country’s Minister of Culture and Tourism from 2003 to 2004.
Farooki stated, “Additionally, I found inspiration from another respected director, Lee Chang-dong, who was also a minister. I thought to myself, ‘If he can return and continue his independent work, perhaps I can endure as well.’ However, it’s important to note that in our system, the Culture Minister has limited influence over the film industry. Yet, I will strive to see if we can still make a difference through our multi-disciplinary Shilpokola Academy, which falls under my jurisdiction.
The turmoil in Bangladesh started in July over calls to abolish a job quota system that reserves up to 30% of government positions for family members of 1971 independence war heroes. Critics claim this system is unfair and instead advocate for a system based on merit. In reaction, the government at the time blocked internet access and sent in armed forces who fired upon protesters, resulting in numerous fatalities.
Initially, the protests transformed into a larger-scale opposition to the government, with protesters demanding the conclusion of Prime Minister Hasina’s 15-year term in office. Eventually, this pressure forced her to leave the country.
Farooki had described the events to EbMaster as “amazing” and Monday as the “second independence for Bangladeshi people.” The country had gained independence from Pakistan in 1971. “The most beautiful part of this movement is that people from all walks of life participated, led by Gen Z youth,” Farooki said. “English medium, Bangla medium, Arabic medium, Hindu, Muslim, Buddhist, Christian, all participated in the movement.”
Farooki expressed that the experience was simply incredible. He further expressed his hope for a society that embodies democracy, offers equal justice, and is free of corruption. This utopia would also nurture artistic freedom, enabling creators to produce any films they desire without restrictions or concerns about censorship from the scriptwriting stage, asking “Is this acceptable to show?
Farooki now has the opportunity to make a difference in the sector.
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2024-11-11 09:19