Cultural movements necessary for peace and tolerance: Mamunur Rashid

Mamunur Rashid, a legend in the theatre arena of Bangladesh, never looked back after forming Aranyak Natya Dal in 1972. The Ekushey Padak awardee talked to The Daily Star about the recent happenings in Bangladesh.

A lot of chaos was spread during Durga Puja this year. What do you have to say about these events?

These actions are totally unacceptable, and hateful. People who are involved with them or have supported them should be ashamed of themselves. 50 years have passed since our independence, and we still have to face this? Why do such vandalisms happen every year?

In reality, our tolerance levels have dropped significantly. Bangladesh needs a cultural movement and revolution. The cries of despair, this hatefulness – I cannot take it anymore.

We are human beings, and we should treat each other with love.

What do you think cultural personalities and workers should do at this point?

We definitely need to protest this strongly. We cannot let this happen in our country – only a united movement can help stop this madness.  Cultural movements are necessary for peace and tolerance, and we need to spread this message – this country belongs to everyone who lives in it, irrespective of race or religion.

You have had an illustrious career, to say the least. How did you reflect a sense of responsibility in your work?

I have always taken pride in working on recent and relevant issues. In 2001, indigenous leader Alfred Soren was murdered. We staged a play on it, titled 'Rarang' – I wrote it myself. To this date, this play is being performed.

A lot of people don't find the courage to speak up on national issues, but I do. This is because I am indebted to my country, and I have a responsibility towards it. 'Kohe Facebook' is also one of these plays, and we staged it during the pandemic. It was received well by the audience.

Acting is my passion, my profession. It is where I am the most committed. I can speak my mind freely on stage, which I can't do on television.

Which Bangladesh do you want to live in?

A beautiful and tolerant Bangladesh, where there will be no conflicts. Instead of hatemongering, there will be love amidst the people.