Syeda Rizwana Hasan, Advisor to the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change and the Ministry of Water Resources, underscored the deep connection between cultural preservation and sustainable development. The preservation of our cultural heritage is intrinsically linked to the well-being of our environment and communities, she stated.
Her remarks came during the inauguration of Maheen Khan’s much-anticipated Baishakhi Festival and the exhibition “Crafting the Many Threads of Cultural Textiles”, where she spoke as Chief Guest at the Edgewater Gallery in Gulshan, Dhaka.
This exhibition stands as a testament to the resilience and creativity of our artisans, Rizwana Hasan remarked, emphasizing the need to safeguard these traditions and promote their sustainable growth. “There is a vital connection between culture and sustainable development,” she affirmed.
She praised Maheen Khan’s commitment to empowering local artisans and advocating for eco-friendly practices within traditional textile crafts. Maheen Khan’s work not only celebrates the artistry of our weavers but also highlights the importance of sustainable practices that ensure the longevity of these invaluable traditions, she added.
Coinciding with the exhibition, the Baishakhi Festival featured traditional music and a vibrant fashion show, creating a festive ambiance to celebrate the spirit of the Bengali New Year. The event attracted a diverse audience of artists, designers, and cultural enthusiasts, all eager to immerse themselves in Bangladesh’s rich cultural heritage.
Fashion Designer Maheen Khan, organizer Shoibal Saha and Representatives of UCB and MTB Banks also spoke in the occasion.