There should be no clash between culture and politics

Khairul Anam Shakil. A well-known figure in the cultural sphere. He is a singer and teacher. For a long time, he has been involved in Bangladesh’s cultural activities. In recognition of his contributions to music, the Government of Bangladesh awarded him the country's second-highest civilian honor, the Ekushey Padak, in 2019. He spoke to the Views Bangladesh about the cultural movement in Bangladesh, Pohela Boishakh, Chaitra Sankranti, and several related issues. The interview was conducted by Editorial Assistant Shahadat Hossain Touhid.

Views Bangladesh: The name of ‘Mangal Shobhajatra’ has been changed to ‘Ananda Shobhajatra’—how do you see this development?

Khairul Anam Shakil: My personal opinion is that Mangal Shobhajatra has been held for a long time. It has also gained international recognition. The celebration of the Bengali New Year has been acknowledged in UNESCO’s certificate of recognition as an intangible world cultural heritage in this very name. So, I believe there’s no harm in keeping the original name. Moreover, suddenly changing the name brings neither benefits nor problems. The issue is—when something becomes known by a certain name, what’s the logic in renaming it? I don’t quite understand. If everyone can understand the meaning of Mangal Shobhajatra, then what’s the problem? It's better to keep the original name.

Views Bangladesh: This time, Islamic cultural organisations will also participate in the Chaitra Sankranti procession, and instructions have been given for New Year celebrations to be held in madrasas—something never seen before. How do you view this development?

Khairul Anam Shakil: If people from different walks of life in our country want to celebrate Chaitra Sankranti by understanding its significance, I don’t see any problem with it. I don’t view this from a religious standpoint. We work to preserve our traditions. I believe that we are all human beings of this country. Anyone who understands and appreciates Bengali heritage can celebrate it. However, the way we have been celebrating these events for a long time—if that format is maintained, everyone can enjoy it together. I believe that’s how it should be. If we start adding separate ideas or elements, there will be no originality left.

Views Bangladesh: Some people in this country bring up religious issues when it comes to celebrating Pohela Boishakh. How do you view this?

Khairul Anam Shakil: No, we’ve always said that there is no conflict between religion and the celebration of Pohela Boishakh. What do we do on Pohela Boishakh? We highlight the culture and heritage of the Bengali people. Whatever exists within that heritage—like music—we use that in our events. What does that music contain? Messages of love for humanity, patriotism, how to build a better society—our songs are penned around these themes. And in this country, we face many adversities in various forms, and through music we find inspiration and strength to overcome them.

So, the Bengali New Year is not just about celebration—it’s also about enriching ourselves and letting the world know that I am a Bengali. I take pride in my language, my literature, and my culture. On this day, we celebrate with people of all communities. On this special day, we declare to the world together: I am Bengali in heart and soul. I am proud of my traditions and my culture.

Views Bangladesh: This year’s Pohela Boishakh celebration carries the slogan: “End of Fascism is the Call of the New Year.” How do you view this?

Khairul Anam Shakil: What can I really say about this? People will celebrate in their own ways. Whether it’s good or bad—that’s for the public to evaluate. There’s really nothing specific to say about it. What I want to emphasise is that we consider Pohela Boishakh a joyous festival. On this day, we should do whatever promotes love among people. That’s the kind of approach we take when organising our events at Chhayanaut. We invite everyone, regardless of religion or background. On the first day of the year, let us all come together and celebrate Pohela Boishakh.

Views Bangladesh: Political parties in Bangladesh often seem indifferent to culture; yet during times of crisis or disaster, they tend to turn to culture for support. What is the reason behind this?

Khairul Anam Shakil: Whichever government comes to power, they express the importance they place on culture in their own way. However, I believe that it would be better if more emphasis were placed on cultural practices. We must understand that culture is primary identity of a nation. No one can afford to be indifferent to culture. If we are, then as a nation, we will lose our significance on the global stage. No matter which political party I belong to, I must understand how Bangladesh achieved its independence, and how this nation came into being.

On the other hand, there should be no conflict between culture and politics. All political parties should understand that culture is a special place of identity for the nation. It is the source of our pride. In which country of the world have so many people sacrificed their lives to establish the mother tongue? That’s why culture must be placed in a position of high importance. How that is done—that’s up to those in power. But I believe everyone should give this matter serious thought. If we remain indifferent to culture, our society will continue to head toward further decline. Therefore, it is the responsibility of all political parties to give culture the importance it deserves and actively work to promote and preserve it.

Views Bangladesh: This year, under the initiative of Shilpakala Academy, the Boishakh festival is being celebrated with participation from 28 ethnic communities—a development not seen before. What are your thoughts on this?

Khairul Anam Shakil: Those who are running the country seem to have realised that people from various ethnic groups across different regions should be more closely integrated with our broader cultural fabric. Pohela Boishakh is traditionally a Bengali celebration, that’s true—but if you consider them as citizens of Bangladesh, and if they wish to participate—willingly seeing this country as their own and considering this day as a day of celebration for themselves as well—then there is no harm in that.