Dhaka International Mobile Film Festival (DIMFF), supported by the Russian House in Dhaka, organised a screening of six Russian and Bangladeshi short films to promote cultural exchange through cinema.
Titled "Russia-Bangladesh: Two Nations, One Screen", the event was held on 15 October at MA Matin Road in Dhanmondi, Dhaka, bringing together students, filmmakers, faculty members and guests, according to the press release.
The programme featured three films from each country, offering audiences an opportunity to explore different cultures and storytelling traditions.
Hosted by Suriaya Rahman, the event began with an opening and welcome session following the arrival of guests and participants.
Alexandra A Khlevnoy, director of the Russian House in Dhaka, delivered the opening welcome address and highlighted the importance of cultural cooperation between Russia and Bangladesh.
"I encourage young people to stay creative, keep exploring their ideas, and never stop learning. Sometimes, one film or project can open the door to new opportunities and change the direction of your life," she said.
Professor Dr Sumon Rahman, dean of the School of Social Sciences and head of the Department of Media Studies and Journalism at the University of Liberal Arts Bangladesh, welcomed participants and discussed cinema's role in connecting people and communities.
"This collaboration creates an opportunity to explore our cultural similarities and differences through cinema. By watching films from both countries, we can better understand each other's traditions, perspectives, and stories. I hope this partnership with the Russian House continues to grow in the future," he said.
Mir Wadud Islam, instructor of DIMFF 2027, spoke about the significance of the screening and filmmaking's role in storytelling.
The screening opened with three Russian short films: "The Shell" by Oleg Kondratiev, "Raspberry" by Mariya Sergeevna Klenovskaya and "One Minute" by Ilnur Mukhambetaliev.
These were followed by three Bangladeshi films: "Hurumturum" by Sohan Sheikh, "Goodbye" by Jannatul Ferdos Akhi and "Sound of Silence" by Shoumik Bakshi Dipto.
After the screenings, Sohan Sheikh, festival director of DIMFF, thanked the Russian House, participating filmmakers and guests for their support and participation.
Syeda Sadia Mehjabin, adviser to DIMFF 2027, delivered the vote of thanks. The programme concluded with a group photograph.
The screening reflected DIMFF's aim of empowering young filmmakers through accessible mobile filmmaking, guided by its motto, "New Generation, New Tools, New Communication".
Organisers said bringing films from both countries together demonstrated cinema's potential to encourage cross-cultural understanding and strengthen Bangladesh–Russia ties.