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Arts and culture in Bangladesh

Arts and culture

PoetryEmbroidery is the art form from Bangladesh; it has deep roots and is still traditionally practised by women. © Michel Drachoussoff-Hoa Qui

The culture of Bangladesh is a learned mix of several cultures and religions dating back 2,500 years. Islam, Jainism, Buddhism and Hinduism are the different religions which have influenced the arts of Bangladesh.
Artisanry holds an important place in the culture of Bangladesh; you can find unique styles in the fabrics, jewellery, woodwork, metal crafts and pottery.
The country has a rich literary heritage represented by various poets and very creative popular literature.
Music and dance are also part of the daily life, although the latter, of Indian inspiration, is not well-received by conservative religious authorities. There is a rich tradition of folk songs here, with the lyrics evoking spirituality, mysticism, devotion and, especially, love. The country's typical musical instruments are the bamboo flute, the drums, the ektara (a one-stringed instrument), the dotara (a two or four-stringed instrument) and the mandira (small metal percussion instruments).