Idol makers honoured in Barisal

The seventh annual reception ceremony to honour 'Pal and Kumars' (sculptors and artisans of idols) was held in Barisal on Tuesday with a call to create harmony between communities.

Towards this end, participants called for greater patronage, professional recognition and prestige of traditional artisans.  

Mritshilpi Sammelon O Sanmanona Udjapon Parshad of Barisal organised the programme at Ashwini Kumar Hall of the city with an exhibition of traditional arts and crafts including Nakshi Katha, pottery handicrafts, photographs. Ministry of Cultural affairs and India Bangladesh Foundation supported the programme.

Professor Nesar Hossain, dean of Fine Arts faculty of Dhaka University, inaugurated the programme by lighting lamps and singing Sarad Sangeet led by Manisha Das.

The programme was presided over by Rakhal Chandra Dey, district president Puja Udjapon Parishad.

Sushanta Ghosh, convener of the Parishad delivered the welcome address. Dr. Gazi. Md Saifuzzaman Alam, Deputy Commissioner Barisal district was special guest.

Among the speakers were Ajoy Dasgupta, associate editor Daily Samakal and Tanzim Ahmed, programme officer of IBF Foundation.

 Award money, cloth, colours and brushes were distributed among 120 Pals and Kumars, including 30 female artisans and their associates from different areas of Barisal region.

The speakers said Pals and Kumars are symbols of the rich tradition and heritage of the country.