Don't try to influence anyone on National Film Awards: PM

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina yesterday asked the authorities concerned to evaluate real artistes and performers while giving the National Film Awards and hoped that nobody will try to influence anyone in this regard.

"I hope that when such awards are given, nobody will try to influence anyone in this regard ... I want that the true artistes and performers are evaluated properly and authorities will give attention to this matter," she said while distributing the National Film Awards-2015.

"We may have power, but we want this not to be misused ... I would like to request everybody not to create any pressure in this regard," she added.

The premier handed over the awards, the highest state recognition for contributions to the country's film industry, to 31 artistes and performers in 25 categories at the Bangabandhu International Conference Centre (BICC) here.

Information Minister Hasanul Haq Inu presided over the function, while Chairman of the Parliamentary Standing Committee on the ministry AKM Rahamatullah was present as the special guest.

Information Secretary Martuza Ahmed delivered the welcome address at the function attended by ministers, advisers, parliament members, high civil and military officials, media personalities and dignitaries.

On behalf of the award-recipients, renowned film actress Shabana spoke at the function expressing her feelings about receiving the award.

The premier also called on the filmmakers to produce quality films by upholding the country's history, culture and tradition and assured that her government will do whatever is necessary for it.

"We want those who make movies in Bangladesh to produce films that would contain the country's history, culture and heritage and earn international accolades," she said.

Sheikh Hasina said Bangladesh is marching forward in every sector. "We don't want to lag behind in the field of film and I'm giving words that we must extend whatever cooperation is needed for the development of the film industry," she said.

"We've given over Tk 400,000 crore budget ... we're now self-reliant in every sector. We're a victorious nation as we earned independence through liberation war and we want to continue the trend of victory in every field, even in the film industry," she added.

Sheikh Hasina expressed the hope that all concerned including filmmakers, producers, script-writers, actors and actresses and performers will play an important role in the development of the film industry through their talent, labour and creativity.

The prime minister said country lacks efficient scriptwriters, adding, "Due to a good script, a film can touch the heart of the viewers and they could return home with the essence of the film."

She called upon the litterateurs and artistes and others concerned who are involved in film making to take this into consideration.

Sheikh Hasina also urged the filmmakers to be efficient in using new technologies to sustain in the competitive world.

Describing film as a strong medium, the prime minister said life struggle of the people and social picture are reflected in the films and it's possible to be very close to the common people through the creative art.

"As a result, the common people get inspiration in creative works, like that they are encouraged in social values and patriotism," she said, adding that artistes, performers and filmmakers energise the mass people in building the country.

Source: bss