Shilpakala is not without leadership: Mostofa Sarwar Farooki
Renowned filmmaker and cultural affairs adviser Mostofa Sarwar Farooki has dismissed concerns that Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy is running without leadership following the recent resignation of its director general, Syed Jamil Ahmed.
Speaking at a press briefing held today at 1pm in the conference room of the National Theatre Hall, Farooki addressed the issue directly. "Shilpakala is not running without proper leadership — in fact, it is operating more swiftly and efficiently than ever," he said in response to questions about the vacant DG post.
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He emphasised that for the first time in the country's 54-year history, Shilpakala is becoming truly inclusive.
"The current governing and management body is steering the institution with excellence," Farooki stated, pointing to the successful celebration of chand raat events during Eid-ul-Fitr as a recent milestone.
He also noted a significant expansion of Shilpakala's cultural outreach across the capital and at the national level, highlighting the institution's increasing role in promoting cultural harmony.
"That in itself speaks volumes about the leadership at play," he added.
On the question of appointing a new director general, Farooki said, "That decision lies with Shilpakala's internal management. The ministry is here to collaborate and assist, not interfere."
The press briefing was part of a broader announcement outlining the roadmap for cultural programmes planned for this year's Pahela Baishakh festivities.
Renowned theatre personality and founding chairman of Dhaka University's Department of Drama and Music, Syed Jamil Ahmed, was appointed director general of Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy on September 9, 2023. Tasked with decentralising the Academy's cultural activities, he quickly revitalised the institution following a change in government.
However, just five and a half months into his two-year term, he abruptly resigned on February 28, 2024, announcing his decision during an event at the National Theatre Hall and submitting his resignation on stage citing 'bureaucratic challenges' and 'restrictions on artistic expression'. His sudden departure has left the DG post vacant and raised concerns across the country's cultural landscape.
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