Dhaka: Former interim government Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus on Wednesday described the July Mass Uprising Memorial Museum as the starting point of Bangladesh’s new journey, saying the nation should return to the museum whenever it loses its way to rediscover its democratic ideals and future direction. Speaking as a special guest at the discussion titled “July 36” following the museum’s inauguration, he also said the museum will serve as a bridge between Bangladesh’s past and future, inspiring future generations to uphold the spirit of the July uprising and build a better nation.
According to United News of Bangladesh, Prof Yunus emphasized that the museum stands as both a preserver of history and a creator of the future. “This museum stands between the past and the future. It has preserved the past instantly, but it has also created the future. It tells us who we are, what we wanted, and what kind of Bangladesh we dreamed of building,” he stated. He underscored the institution’s unique role in guiding the nation through uncertain times, offering a place to find clarity and direction when confusion arises.
Prof Yunus highlighted the museum’s distinction from conventional museums due to its immediate documentation of a pivotal historical chapter. “There are many museums around the world that preserve objects from the distant past. This museum is different because it has preserved the memories, documents and artefacts of a historic event almost instantly,” he said. He further noted the museum’s role in capturing the aspirations and sacrifices of ordinary people, especially the young protesters who sought to create a new Bangladesh.
Reflecting on the handwritten farewell letter left by July uprising martyr Shariar Khan Anas, Prof Yunus remarked on the courage and conviction it represented. “He was not following a script. His parents tried to stop him, but he felt compelled to join the movement. His letter captured the emotions of a generation,” he said. He urged young Bangladeshis to draw inspiration from the museum and contribute to building the country envisioned by the martyrs.
Prof Yunus expressed hope that students from all educational levels will visit the museum to reflect on the July uprising and envision their dreams for Bangladesh’s future. “I hope visitors will not simply walk through the galleries and leave. They should think about what kind of Bangladesh they want to build,” he stated. He also envisioned the museum as a vibrant cultural hub, where young people can express their aspirations through creative works.
He praised those involved in establishing the museum, recognizing the painstaking efforts reflected in each exhibit. Prof Yunus called on people to visit the museum with their families and spend time contemplating its message. “We should ask ourselves why these events happened and what responsibilities now rest on our shoulders. Only then will the museum fulfil its true purpose,” he said.
The museum was formally inaugurated by Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, who addressed the program as the chief guest. Cultural Affairs Minister Nitai Roy Chowdhury, State Minister Ali Newaz Mahmood Khyom, and other dignitaries participated in the event. The gathering included cabinet members, diplomats, academics, civil society representatives, families of the July martyrs, and senior government officials.
Former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina fled Bangladesh for India on August 5, 2024, amid a student-led mass uprising. Her official residence, Ganobhaban, was later transformed by the interim government led by Prof Yunus into the July Mass Uprising Memorial Museum to preserve photographs, documents, and artefacts related to the movement.