Nourishing cultural identity

The observance of the Bengali new year or Pahela Baishakh, every year, does mark this nation's zest to assert its Bengali way of life. This spirit was also amply demonstrated during the celebration of Pahela Baishakh this year. Globalisation, technological changes, migration and other factors are eroding considerably national or cultural identities. While there is some merit or inevitability in the process, the true internationalist says that one must first be a good nationalist before trying to be an internationalist. This is because without love, commitment or attachment to one's own country, a sense of belonging and striving by its people to improve conditions at their points of origin, there would be only a more non- uniformly developed world. Besides, who can sensibly suggest that a culturally uniform world will not be monotonous whereas we can surely have a more culturally interesting, vibrant and enjoyable world with cultural diversity. There are common ideals and ways of organisation that human societies in different countries may seek for their common benefit. But this search for common ground ought not to sacrifice the varied cultures and identities of the world's peoples. The unique culture of a people and the eagerness to defend it lends to the people of a country a great spirit called patriotism. Harnessing or utilising this force well can achieve miracles to improve the lot of its people. Thus, the quest to preserve and promote the national culture and identity through celebrations on occasions such as Pahela Baishakh and the like makes so much sense. Abdur Rahman Gulshan, Dhaka