Govt seeks films’ role in rebuilding state

The government wants to rebuild the state and society through collective efforts, stressing that films and cultural movements can play an important role in that process, Information and Broadcasting Minister Zahir Uddin Swapon has said Speaking at the inaugural session of the National Film Council Conference-2026 at the Bangladesh Film Archive auditorium in Agargaon on Saturday, the minister said cinema should work as a force for social change instead of becoming a propaganda tool for any group or ideology.

The conference was organised by the Bangladesh Federation of Film Societies.

Swapon said the government is working for a qualitative change in the state and social system through national consensus and participation of patriotic citizens from all sectors.

Highlighting the importance of films as “soft power”, he said talented filmmakers and cultural activists can contribute significantly to the development of society and civilisation.

The minister also urged film workers to maintain independent thinking and avoid political or ideological domination in cultural activities. At the programme, eminent art critic and film scholar Moinuddin Khaled was honoured with a lifetime achievement award for his contribution to the film industry.
The event was presided over by Jahirul Islam Kochi, while Director General of Bangladesh Film Archive M Javed Iqbal attended as special guest.