Cultural Affairs Minister Nitai Roy Chowdhury today said a complete understanding of any nation can be derived from its cultural practices and hence culture is the soul of a nation.

"Bangla culture is far richer than that of many nations across the world. If we can properly present this enriched heritage, we will be able to establish ourselves as one of the finest nations in the global arena," he said.

He made the remarks while addressing a cultural program held at the Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy marking the Bengali New Year celebrations.

The academy and Jatiyatabadi Samajik Sangskritik Sangstha (JASAS) jointly arranged the event.

The Minister said, "The government is committed to expanding cultural practices to rural areas across the country. To achieve this, the Ministry of Cultural Affairs has been implementing various programmes to encourage cultural engagement among students at schools, colleges and universities."

Diversity is the beauty of a democratic society and we sought unity within this diversity, he added.

JASAS central committee convener Helal Khan presided over the event with State Minister for Cultural Affairs Ali Newaz Mahmud Khaiyam as special guest.