DHAKA, May 19 (Xinhua) -- The Bangladesh National Museum in the capital Dhaka, the country's premier cultural institution, was abuzz with visitors on Sunday as it celebrated International Museum Day.
Located in the heart of Dhaka's bustling Shahbagh Square, the museum began welcoming a steady stream of local visitors and foreign tourists as soon as it opened.
Among the visitors was Abdullah Al Mamun Munna, a recent Secondary School Certificate examinee. Sharing his thoughts with Xinhua, he said, "I've never been to a museum before. This is my first time. When I arrived, I saw a map of Bangladesh and many other exhibits. I liked it very much. I saw artifacts from different parts of the world, and it was really fascinating."
Standing as a proud testament to the rich history of the South Asian nation of some 170 million people, the four-story museum blends modern and Mughal architectural styles. Inside, it houses a diverse and illustrious collection of artifacts, including sculptures, paintings, coins, and ancient weapons that showcase the cultural heritage of Bangladesh. Other sections cover natural history, ethnography, and contemporary art.
Anwar Hossain, a secondary school teacher from Noakhali District, also shared his enthusiasm. "I truly enjoyed it. I saw so many amazing things about Bangladesh that I had only read about in books. Today, I saw them with my own eyes."
"As a teacher, this experience was especially valuable. When I teach my students in the future, I'll be able to speak from direct experience, which will enrich my lessons. I urge everyone, especially those who haven't been, to come and visit. This museum holds the history and traditions of our Bangladesh, and they are a source of great pride."
The museum's white marble facade and extensive collections have made it a landmark in Dhaka, serving both as an educational hub and a cultural treasure trove. It attracts scholars, students, and tourists alike who seek to understand the country's historical and cultural legacy.
Md. Forhad Siddique, director general of the Bangladesh National Museum, told Xinhua that the museum receives around 1,000 visitors daily, including children, youth, adults, and foreigners.
"At present, we have 46 exhibition halls throughout the building," he said. "One of the main highlights is a large map of Bangladesh, offering visitors a clear view of the country's geography."
He also mentioned that the museum hosts sections dedicated to other countries, including China. "We have a China corner as well," he noted.
Regarding the significance of a museum, he said that "the role of a museum is significant to the citizens of the country, because it actually signifies the history, the culture, and who we actually are. So in nation building, people can come here to learn about their past, their roots, and they can also be grateful to the people who have contributed to building this country so far." ■
