Silchar: The Silchar District Sports Association (DSA) inaugurated the Anindita-Samiran Art and Cultural Academy on Saturday at its cricket pavilion, marking an important step in bringing sports and culture under one platform.

The academy was formally inaugurated by noted dramatist and playwright Chitrabhanu Bhowmik, who served as the chief guest. He praised DSA’s initiative to promote art and culture alongside sports, calling it a commendable effort to nurture young talent in multiple fields.

Bhowmik said he was honoured to be part of such a significant occasion. He described the academy as a valuable platform for young learners and urged cultural organisations, clubs, and enthusiasts to come forward and support it.

Samiran Bhattacharjee, former Income Tax officer and donor of the project, said he was happy to contribute to the cause. He added that he wanted to dedicate the initiative to the memory of his late wife, Anindita Bhattacharjee.

Prof. Dr. Biswatosh Chowdhury of Assam University’s Department of Bengali called it a historic day for Silchar DSA and reflected on his long-standing association with the organisation.

DSA president Shibabrata Dutta said the academy will promote cultural activities and create structured training opportunities for young talents across different art forms.

General secretary Atanu Bhattacharjee expressed his gratitude to Samiran Bhattacharjee for his generous support. He said the idea for the academy emerged soon after the new DSA committee took charge, crediting Pronob Dey (Kalyan), cultural branch secretary, and Ajoy Kumar Roy, assistant general secretary, for their dedicated efforts. Calling the day “historic,” he also announced that the Table Tennis Academy will be inaugurated soon.

Pronob Dey also praised Samiran Bhattacharjee for his contribution. Former DSA president Babul Hore echoed the sentiment, describing the occasion as a milestone for the association.

The event concluded with a vibrant cultural programme featuring Rabindra Sangeet, ballet dance, a play by Aajker Projonmo Theatre Group, dhamail, and Nazrul Geeti performances.

The ceremony was conducted by dramatist Subrata Roy (Shambhu). Among those present were Ajoy Kumar Roy, AGS Ajoy Kumar Chakraborty, AGS Arijit Gupta, treasurer Buddhadeb Choudhury, AGS Debashish Shome, and several other DSA members.

Promotional | North East Integration Rally