Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy brought the curtain down on the third Bangladesh Film Festival at the National Theatre Hall on its premises in the capital on Friday.

The 15-day film festival, held from February 17 to March 3 across the country, featured 36 films.

The BSA handed over awards in seven categories at the closing ceremony of the festival.

Muhammad Quayum-directed film Kura Pokkhir Shunye Ura bagged Best Film Award, Nurul Alam Atique won Best Film Director Award for Laal Moroger Jhuti, Rezwan Shahriar Sumit-directed Nonajoler Kabbo received Special Mentions, Syed Kashef Shahbazi won Best Cinematographer Award for Chandrabati Kotha, Sujan Mahmud won Best Editor Award for Shimu, Ripon Nath received Best Sound Designer Award for Fagun Haway and Khandaker Sumon won Best Production Designer Award for Saatao.

State minister for cultural affairs KM Khalid was present as chief guest while filmmakers Syed Salauddin Jaki and Masihuddin Shaker were present as special guests at the closing ceremony, which was presided over by director general of Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy Liaquat Ali Lucky.

KM Khalid said, ‘We want to upgrade cinemas so that people from all walks of life can enjoy our films.’

Masihuddin Shaker said, ‘I think that it is high time the cultural affairs ministry takes Bangladesh Film Censor Board and other film -related facilities under its jurisdiction.’

Nurul Alam Atique said, ‘I thank the BSA for organising this festival. I am happy because Laal Moroger Jhuti was screened in 64 districts of the country during the festival.’

Rezwan Shahriar Sumit said, ‘I thank the BSA for honouring me. My next film named Tufan Aitachhe will also tell the story of fisherfolk.’

Muhammad Quayum said, ‘I thank the BSA for organising this film festival and congratulate all the winners, nominees and filmmakers.’

Following the awards ceremony, artistes entertained the audience presenting group dance recitals.