Religious Affairs Adviser Dr AFM Khalid Hossain in an event organised by ATN News in the capital today. You are also looking Dr. Mahfuzur Rahman of ATN News here. Photo: PID

DHAKA, Mar 22, 2025 (BSS) - Religious Affairs Adviser Dr AFM Khalid Hossain today said Islamic Olympiad carries huge significance as the culture of two billion people around the world is connected with Islamic culture.

“Culture is the root of a nation, and disconnecting from it is to get disconnected from one’s very essence,” he told the grand finale of the ‘Fresh Islamic Olympiad-2025’, organized by ATN News at a hotel in the capital this afternoon.

The adviser said, “Many people tend to think that culture is only about the melodies of music, the rhythm of dance, and the patterns of shadows. This is not entirely true; it is only a partial truth. Culture encompasses the thoughts, beliefs, and lifestyles of a community.”

The religious adviser stressed the importance of engaging the next generation with culture, values, and cherished legacies.

Highlighting the need to awaken cultural consciousness, Dr. Khalid said, “Around 91% of the people in this country are Muslim. We cannot neglect the culture of this large community. We must strive to revive and promote this culture and its values.”

Dr. Khalid also expressed his gratitude to ATN News for organizing the Islamic Olympiad and encouraged the sponsors to continue supporting the event.

Chaired by ATN News and ATN Bangla Dr. Mahfuzur Rahman, the event was also attended by Executive Director of ATN News Md. Mosharraf Hossain.

Later, the adviser presented awards to the winners of the Islamic Olympiad-2025.
The competition, which saw participation from students of schools, colleges, and universities, had nine winners across three groups, each receiving a crest, certificate, and prize money.