Jagannath University has launched its inaugural film festival titled “Jagannath University Film Festival 2025.” The three-day event began on June 23 at the Chitrashala Auditorium of Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy. The festival is organized by the university’s Film Society in partnership with Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy under the theme “Where Stories Take Flight.”
The opening ceremony was attended by Assistant Professor Sharif Siraj of the Bangla Department and Samiun Haque Dola, a part-time lecturer from the Film and Television Department. Directors of the selected films were also present.
Festival President Adnan Mahmud Saikat said the event aims to provide a new platform for emerging filmmakers across the country. “This festival is the realization of a long-held dream,” he added.
According to Festival Director Ragib Shahriar Saikat, more than 70 films were submitted by students and young directors nationwide. A selection of these films is being screened throughout the festival.
General Secretary of the Film Society, Hasibuzzaman Rick, who coordinated the event, expressed excitement. “We have worked relentlessly to make this happen. This will be a unique experience for film lovers,” he said.
On the opening day, film screenings ran from 11 am to 3 pm. Later, a special session took place at Jagannath University’s Computer Science and Engineering Department video conference room.
The festival’s jury panel includes well-known film personalities Bidhan Riberu, Syed Ahmed Shawki, and Sadia Khaled Riti.
The festival will continue until June 25. On the second day, more short films will be screened, followed by a masterclass at 3:30 pm conducted by filmmaker Raka Noushin Nawar.
This event marks a significant step for Jagannath University to promote film culture and support young filmmakers nationwide.
