In the ongoing pursuit of building an inclusive Bangladesh, the celebration of religious and cultural festivals holds unparalleled significance. These festivities foster social harmony, unity, and humanistic values, serving as a unique bridge across communities. In this context, the Christian community’s most significant religious festival, Christmas, celebrated on 25 December, will be honoured with a special cultural programme at the Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy.
The event, organised jointly by the Ministry of Cultural Affairs and the Academy, is scheduled for Wednesday, 24 December, at 6:00 pm on the Academy’s Nandan stage. Attendees can expect an evening that conveys messages of peace, social unity, and humanity—reflecting the true essence of the festive season.
The programme will feature a diverse array of performances, including vocal music, devotional kirtan, and various musical presentations. Leading performers include members of the Tejgaon Church Choir: Christopher Gomez, Dilip Mondal, Bijoy Gomez, Rexona Mondal, Joya Gomez, Biba Gomez, and Subash Perich. Additionally, a solo performance by Juliet Sushmita Baroi promises to captivate the audience with her artistry.
Modern musical elements will be introduced through live band performances by “Gethsemane Worship” and “F Minor,” adding a contemporary dimension to the celebration. Notably, the event is open to the public, encouraging participation from all communities.
For decades, the Shilpakala Academy and the Ministry have highlighted religious and cultural festivals as platforms for creativity, compassion, and social cohesion. The table below summarises some of last year’s notable cultural festivals:
| Festival Name | Date | Venue | Main Attraction |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chandratra Ananda Festival (Eid ul-Fitr) | 30 March 2025 | Nandan Stage | Cultural fair, music, and dance |
| Buddha Purnima Festival | 10 May 2025 | Nandan Stage & 6 districts | Kirtan, meditation, and cultural exhibitions |
| Ananda Festival (Eid ul-Adha) | 6 June 2025 | Nandan Stage | Music, dance, and children’s workshops |
| Sharadiya Durga Puja | 30 Sept – 1 Oct 2025 | Suurwardi Garden & Nandan Stage | Two-day cultural programme, drums, and dance |
Through each of these festivals, the Academy continues to promote creativity, religious tolerance, and national cultural heritage. The forthcoming Christmas celebration promises to be a memorable evening for both audiences and performers, uniting all in joy, cultural appreciation, and festive spirit.