Sep 27, 2008

Chittagong Hill Tracts: How to Keep Culture Alive?


Active ImageA discussion was organised to uphold and encourage the cultural practices and heritages of 11 ethnic communities in Chittagong Hill Tracts.

Below is article written by The Daily Star:

Speakers at a discussion on Wednesday [24 September 2008] had some suggestions for the government to uphold and encourage the cultural practices and heritages of 11 ethnic communities in Chittagong Hill Tracts (CHT). 

They recommended the establishment of a cultural research institute for the indigenous communities culture and employing indigenous language teachers at every primary school in CHT as well as holding more programmes highlighting the cultural traditions of the indigenous people. 

The discussion and a 'Pustok Parichiti' programme were organised by 'Kopo Seva Sangha' (KSS) at the Khagrachhari Hill District Council (KHDC) Auditorium to introduce 11 research-based books on indigenous customs, heritages and lifestyle. 

Marma Circle Chief -- locally known as the "Mong Raja" -- Paihalaprue Chowdhury was the chief guest while Executive Officer of KHDC, Nurul Alam presided over the discussion and 'Pustok Parichiti' programme. 

The books that were introduced at the event highlight the traditions of Chakma, Marma, Tripura, Khumi, Khiyang, Lusai, Pankhuya, Tanchangya, Murang, Byom and Chak communities and were published with the assistance of 'Manuser Jonney Foundation.' 

Other suggestions introduced at the programme were inclusion of chapters focusing on indigenous cultures in text books at school, college and university levels and setting up at least three museums in the three hill districts to further generate awareness on the traditions and lifestyle of the ethnic communities. 

Among others, Additional Deputy Commissioner (Revenue) Mohammad Masud Ahmed; Kopo Seva Sangha Advisor, Advocate Pratim Roy and journalist Sunil Kanti spoke at the discussion.