The Bangladesh government has withdrawn its order to demolish Satyajit Ray's ancestral home after protests. A committee will now decide how to preserve this cultural heritage.
Satyajit Ray's Ancestral Home: The Bangladesh government has postponed its decision to demolish the ancestral home of Upendrakishore Ray Chowdhury, grandfather of the great filmmaker Satyajit Ray. This historic building is located in the Mymensingh district of Bangladesh. This decision was taken after b protests were registered by the Indian government and West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee. Now, an expert committee will be formed to decide on the future of this heritage site and how it can be preserved.
Importance of the Historic Heritage
This building is not just an old house, but is considered a symbol of the cultural renaissance of Bengal. Upendrakishore Ray Chowdhury, a renowned writer, painter, and science enthusiast, carried out many creative works in this house. It is considered to be the beginning of Satyajit Ray's cultural roots.
Strong Protest and Offer of Cooperation from India
The Indian government bly protested the decision to demolish the building. The Ministry of External Affairs stated in its statement that this building is an important part of the cultural heritage of the Indian subcontinent. The government offered to convert the building into a literary museum and also proposed to provide assistance in its reconstruction. The Bangladesh government took this sentiment of India seriously and has, for the time being, suspended the demolition order.
Emotional Appeal by Mamata Banerjee
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee also appealed to the Bangladesh government to preserve the building. She had said through social media and other mediums regarding this matter that it is extremely important for Bengal emotionally and culturally. She had appealed to all intellectuals and aware citizens to raise their voices to save this heritage site.
Clarification from the Bangladesh Government
The Bangladesh government stated that the building had become very dilapidated and could pose a threat to the safety of the people. Therefore, it was planned to remove it and build a new concrete building there to create a cultural center. However, it has now been decided that a committee of experts will first review it and then a concrete step will be taken.
Future Plans: Museum or Cultural Center
For now, the order to demolish this building has been revoked and the committee will consider what will be built in its place. India has clarified that if it is converted into a literary museum, it is ready to provide technical and financial assistance. A final decision will be taken on this after the recommendations of the committee.
