‘Healthy social culture vital for civilised society’

The importance of vibrant social institutions and healthy human interaction are fundamental to building a civilised and progressive society, Information and Broadcasting Minister Zahir Uddin Swapon said on Friday.

Addressing the opening ceremony of the ‘Fruit Festival’ organised by the Jatiya Press Club on its premises , the minister said social development cannot be achieved through power struggles and confrontational politics alone.

“The mere struggle for power and aggressive rivalry cannot define civilisation,” he said, adding that an ideal society cannot emerge without healthy avenues for emotional connection and strong social institutions.

The minister stressed the need to cultivate positive values and social harmony, urging that such cultural initiatives be expanded beyond major cities and introduced at the grassroots level.

Describing the event as more than a seasonal celebration, he said the festival embodies a broader social and cultural vision aimed at strengthening relationships among people through the sharing and enjoyment of seasonal fruits.

Referring to traditions observed across different faiths and communities, Zahir Uddin Swapon said expressions of gratitude towards nature and seasonal harvests are deeply rooted in cultures around the world.

He noted that the rich variety of fruits available in the country reflects both nature’s generosity and divine blessings, adding that consuming seasonal fruits is also a way of expressing gratitude to nature and the Creator.

Praising the initiative of the Jatiya Press Club, the minister said when respected institutions uphold such cultural traditions, the media can play an important role in extending their positive influence throughout the country.

He expressed hope that the expansion of similar cultural practices from the national level to local communities would contribute significantly to building a more humane, inclusive and progressive society.
The Press Club premises took on a festive atmosphere in the morning as an assortment of seasonal fruits was displayed alongside patriotic songs performed to mark the occasion.

This year’s festival featured around 42 varieties of seasonal fruits. The event also included a cultural programme where artistes Tamanna Haque, Shahriar Rafat, Mini Alauddin and Babu performed patriotic and folk songs for the audience.

Members of the Jatiya Press Club and their families attended the day-long celebration, which continued from morning until afternoon.

The opening ceremony was chaired by National Press Club President Hasan Hafiz, while General Secretary Ayub Bhuiyan delivered the welcome address.

Management Committee Member and Convener of the Special Events and Hospitality Sub-Committee Kader Gani Chowdhury conducted the programme.

Among those present were senior journalists and members of the management committee, including Kazi Raunak Hossain, Bakhtiar Rana, Syed Abdal Ahmed, AKM Mohsin and Masumur Rahman Khalili, along with their family members.