A Redbridge arts organisation is hosting a five day festival showcasing the sights and sounds of Bangladesh to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the country’s independence.
Starting on Thursday (April 29), Mukto Arts will host a virtual Bhatiali festival which will be opened by John Biggs, the Mayor of Tower Hamlets.
Bhatiali is a classic type of folk music related to river and rural life.
Leading researchers from around the world will present six essays on the music’s heritage.
The festivities kick off every day at 4pm and will feature musical performances, as well as an exhibition of short films mixed with a live painting by British Bangladeshi artist Mukta Chakravarty, whose project was commissioned by Arts Council England along with a grant from National Lottery.
Ashim Chakraborty, a founding member of Mukto Arts and creative director of the organisation, said its mission has been working to preserve and present Bangladesh’s cultural heritage.