A piece of cinematic and cultural history may soon be lost, as reports from Bangladesh confirm plans to demolish the ancestral home of legendary filmmaker Satyajit Ray in Dhaka. The news has triggered concern across borders, especially in West Bengal, where Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has urged the Indian government to step in.

Satyajit Ray, known globally for his contributions to cinema, was born into a family deeply rooted in literature and the arts. His ancestral home in Dhaka is seen by many as a heritage site — not just for Bangladesh, but for the entire subcontinent.

The Bangladesh government has cited urban development plans as the reason behind the move. However, artists, historians, and cultural organizations argue that the home holds immense historical value and should be preserved.

Reacting swiftly to the news, Mamata Banerjee sent a formal appeal to the central government, requesting it to open dialogue with Bangladesh and explore ways to preserve the house. She also hinted at possible collaboration or assistance if the Bangladesh government is open to it.

This isn’t the first time the demolition of a cultural site has led to cross-border concern. But what makes this case special is Satyajit Ray’s legacy — one that transcends national boundaries and is celebrated globally.

While it’s unclear what steps will be taken next, there’s hope that diplomacy and public interest might help in safeguarding what many view as an irreplaceable part of South Asian heritage.