International mother language day is a celebration of multilingualism, calling for the recognition of all languages. For the Bengalis, it is also a day to remember those sacrifices their life to establish their mother tongue Bangla. Words, spoken or written, create a bridge between thoughts, ideas and feelings. When words become poetry, it speaks to all individuals, helping to express love, loss, grief, agony, or happiness. Language can be a source of connection and empowerment. The reality of Covid - 19 has created a lot of barriers. Bangla poetry cafe is a bilingual workshop and cultural presentation by BSKUK. It's an opportunity for poetry enthusiast to be part of a fun-filled creative journey. We are excited to attend digitally at the MTF from London.

We invite participants for an hour-long interactive poetry workshop by eminent British Bangladeshi poet Shamim Azad with the musical performance of Bangladesh's mother language anthem by the BSK UK cultural team. Participants will engage with the Poet, experiment with words and express themselves through poetry.

About BSKUK

Bishwo Shahitto Kendro, UK (BSKUK) is a non-profit voluntary organisation established in London in 2002. It follows the dictum of "Alokito ManushChai". Call for enlightenment through inclusion and creative practices within the community promoting world literature and creative arts. BSK UK has been working closely with the community for more than 20 years in the heart of London's East End in partnership with local government, community and voluntary organisation, and academia. The organisation aims to promote Bangladeshi culture, heritage, arts, and aesthetics in a multicultural land. It also intends to create a platform for the Bengali community and the next generation to embrace their cultural identity and celebrate diversity. As an organisation, BSKUK aspires to be a catalyst for change, create cultural awareness and connect with the broader community. It regularly organises talks, cultural festivals, reading circles, performing arts, workshops and publications. Most of the works has been bilingual (Bengali and English) and attracts participants from all cultural backgrounds at local, national and international level.

This event is part of the Mother Tongues Festival. Check out our rich programme of events! www.mothertonguesfestival.com

**Grab your Festival Pack to get a ticket for your event and a signed copy of Little Optimist: A Pocket full of Joy by Ashwin Chacko, the creative mind behind the visuals of this year's Festival! This book is the perfect companion to your festival adventures!

This event or parts of it may be recorded for documentation purposes . Recordings will only be used internally and never shared online or with third parties. By buying this ticket you agree to take part in a workshop that is being recorded.