The folk performance spotlighted threats to rivers, local seeds and fish while promoting tree planting, safe agriculture and environmental responsibility for future generations.
A cultural campaign using “pot gaan” was held in Netrokona on August 1 to raise awareness about protecting biodiversity, nature, the environment, rivers and forests.
The campaign, organised under the slogan “Cultural campaign to save nature”, was planned and directed by Jewel Rana, a member of the Netrokona Green Coalition Committee, with overall support from the district Shilpakala Academy.
The performance highlighted environmental issues affecting the Netrokona region, including encroachment and pollution of the Mogra River, environmental protection, conservation of local seeds, tree planting, protection of local fish species and the destruction of “China duari” fishing nets.
It also addressed drug abuse, safe food and agriculture. A 15-member team took part in the pot gaan performance.
Mohammad Atikur Rahman, cultural officer of the Netrokona Shilpakala Academy, attended the event as chief guest.
Others present included environmental activist Mohammad Ohidur Rahman, regional coordinator of BARCIK, poet and editor Tanvir Jahan Chowdhury, cultural activist Rafiqul Islam Apple, youth organiser Zakaria Khan Rizon, women leaders, students, teachers and members of civil society.
“Our Netrokona region, the land of Mahua, Malua, Dewan Bhabna and the Mymensingh Gitika, is gradually losing its folk culture. By preserving this culture, we can easily reach people through cultural campaigns,” Ohidur Rahman said.
“This initiative to protect biodiversity and nature must be taken to the people,” he added.
Soel Rana, a member of the Netrokona Green Coalition Committee, said pot gaan did not originate in the region but remained relevant to people across different areas.
“Pot gaan is not a song of our region, but of the southern region. However, this form of music is relevant to all areas. Through pot gaan, we will continue our movement for environmental protection, safe agriculture and against drugs,” Rana said.
“We want to create a beautiful environment for future generations,” he added.
