The 7th International Conference on Sufi Philosophy and Cultural Practices for Perfected Humanity began on Sunday at the Natmandal Auditorium of the University of Dhaka.
The two-day event is jointly organised by DU鈥檚 theatre and performance studies department and the Darul Irfan Research Institute, Chattogram.
DU vice-chancellor Professor Niaz Ahmed Khan inaugurated the conference.
鈥楽ufism embraces philosophical and historical elements that unite people of diverse thoughts. At a time when we are facing critical challenges following the student-led mass uprising, Sufism can offer a platform to spread humanity,鈥� said the VC.
He stressed that partnerships between educational institutions and organisations for sustainable development must continue without political influence.
Special guests at the event included DU economics Professor Sayema Haque Bidisha, treasurer Professor M Jahangir Alam Chowdhury, and arts faculty dean Professor Mohammad Siddiqur Rahman Khan.
Conference committee convener Shaman Moishan delivered the welcome speech, while DIRI managing director Shajada Syed Irfanul Hoque gave the opening remarks. Chair of theatre and performance studies department, Kazi Tamanna Haque Sigma, offered a vote of thanks.
Speaking at the event, Sayema Haque Bidisha noted that development was not just about statistics; it was deeply rooted in the relationship between humans and nature. 鈥榃e need to build a society based on humanity.鈥�
The keynote paper titled 鈥楽ufism as Praxis-of-Harmony in Post-July 36 Uprising in Bangladesh鈥� was presented by Professor Syed Jamil Ahmed, founding chairman of the department.
Chittagong University鈥檚 Professor Quazi Mostain Billah and DU鈥檚 Professor Israfeel Shaheen discussed the keynote presentation.
Following the opening ceremony, a session titled 鈥楳eet the Artist鈥� was held with the cast and crew of the production 鈥楶akhider Bidhansabha鈥�, staged by the department. The session was led by Professor Ahmedul Kabir, director of the play.
Participants shared their journey of weaving mysticism into performance and engaged in an open question-and-answer session.
The two-day event includes presentations of 30 articles, discussions, and demonstrations of Sufism-based performances, and will conclude on Monday.
