DHAKA, Feb 14, 2024 (BSS) - Australian High Commission in Dhaka has launched a translation of a book, 'Cultural Heritage of the Patra' to help preserve the cultural and linguistic heritage of the 'Patra' ethnic community of Bangladesh.

The launching took place at the Australia Day reception held at the Australian High Commission in Dhaka on Tuesday with the theme of 'Languages of our Lands' to celebrate linguistic diversity in Australia and Bangladesh.

Housing and Public Works Minister R A M Obaidul Muktadir Chowdhury attended the launching ceremony as the Chief Guest, an Australian HC press release said here today.

The Australian Government supported the translation of the book given its strong commitment towards the diversity and inclusion of cultures and languages - values reflected in the legacy of the language martyrs of Bangladesh and the spirit of International Mother Language Day observed globally on February 21.

In her speech, Acting High Commissioner Nardia Simpson said, "Australia is built on the foundation of diversity, multiculturalism and tolerance... we pay tribute to these values we share with Bangladesh".

"We are hopeful that this translation will support the 'Patra' community by increasing awareness of their culture and language," she added.

The 'Patra' ethnic community, of whom there are fewer than 5,000 members, are inhabitants of the Sylhet division.

They are believed to be the surviving legacy of medieval Sylhet's last kingdom from the 14th century - the Gour Kingdom of King Gaur Govind, the release said.