In 1925, in Kolkata, Dr. Muhammad Shahidullah, the first Bengali Muslim middle-class intellectual, played a significant role in promoting knowledge and literary discussions in the Bangiya Sahitya Parishad. Continuously advocating for cultural development, in 1948, he proposed the establishment of an academy during the East Pakistan Literary Conference in Dhaka. As a result, with the inspiration for the language movement and the awakening of the Muslim middle class in this region, the Bangla Academy was born on December 3, 1955.
The mission and vision of the Bangla Academy include creating a knowledgeable, technology-driven, and intellectually vibrant society rooted in both modern and traditional values through research, publication, and translation in the fields of Bengali language, literature, and culture. The academy has completed 67 years and stands at 68 years today.
Although the Bangla Academy started as a government institution, it gained autonomy in 1957 under the “Bengali Academy Act.” Currently, it operates with eight divisions and three sub-divisions. The academy is engaged in various projects, including the promotion and publication of books related to language, literature, and education, development in translation work through training and publication, and graphic design and computer training.
Dr. Tarek Manzur, a professor in the Bengali Department at Dhaka University, reflects on the accomplishments of the Bangla Academy, especially in the love for dictionaries and the publication of works by different literary figures. However, he points out the visible shortcomings of the academy, particularly in the areas of language standardization and the creation of textbooks for higher classes. The professor suggests that the academy should focus on project-based work and recruit skilled individuals.
The Secretary (Additional Responsibility) of the Bangla Academy, Dr. M. Hasan Kabir, acknowledges ongoing projects and the progress towards achieving goals and objectives. However, he emphasizes the significant challenge of insufficient funds, as the allocated budget is not adequate for the planned projects. The shortage of funds has led to the halt of many projects. Dr. Kabir also mentions the difficulties in increasing the workforce due to the current crisis.
Regarding the upcoming anniversary, the Bangla Academy has planned a morning rally at Central Shaheed Minar, where floral tributes will be offered. The main anniversary event will take place at 3 pm and will be open to all. Former Vice-Chancellor of Dhaka University, Prof. A A M S Arefin Siddique, will be the chief guest, and poet Selina Hossain will preside over the event. Poet Muhammad Nurul Huda, the Director-General of the Academy, will also be present. The day will conclude with a cultural program in the evening for the staff and employees of the academy.
