India-Bangladesh cultural ties strengthened through art: Pranay Verma

Art has always served as a bridge in bilateral relations between Bangladesh and India, Indian High Commissioner to Dhaka Pranay Verma has said.

"I think this is most visible in India-Bangladesh relations, where art acts as a powerful medium that brings our people together and creates bonds of the heart," he said.

Verma made the remarks as chief guest at the inauguration of an art exhibition titled 'Crossroad... Not a Project' at Gallery Kaya in Uttara, capital, on Friday afternoon, April 3. The exhibition features 46 artworks by 11 contemporary Bangladeshi artists.

Speaking about the exhibition, Verma said it captures everything from the Language Movement to the Liberation War, from the simplicity of daily life to the quiet beauty of rural nature. The balanced relationship between nature and humanity is also highlighted.

Inaugurating the exhibition by ringing a bell, Verma said although art sometimes remains silently in the background in strengthening India-Bangladesh relations, it transcends borders and establishes strong connections between the two cultures.

"Our two countries share a common history, geography, language, culture and heritage. Art has always created a strong connection between us," he said, expressing hope that relations between artists of the two countries would deepen further in the future.

Verma emphasised greater art exchange between the two countries. "We are ready to encourage, support and help implement such initiatives. We are keen to participate in any initiative for artist cooperation and cultural exchange," he said.

The exhibition will remain open to all from 11:30 am to 7:30 pm daily until April 16.