President of the Bangladesh Film Society, Professor Kabir Chowdhury chaired the programme. The chief guest was Tasmima Hossain, editor of the fortnightly magazine Ananya. Veteran journalist Wahidul Haque launched the book.

The 692-page book which is based on films and documentaries around the world has three chapters -- first is the Bangladesh episode; second is South Asian and Malayalam movies and the third chapter is based on Latin American movies. People from a cross section of cultures, societies and calibers have contributed their thoughts and expertise in the book. Muhammad Khasru is the editor of Dhrupodi and the book is priced at Tk 500.

The Bangladesh Film Society was formed in 1969 and was known then as the East Pakistan Film Society. The first edition of Dhrupodi also came out the same year. Says Hasan, a member of the society for 15 years and a documentary maker, "The society was established with a vision to promote and appreciate quality films. We have tried to do this by screening foreign movies, encouraging local ones and by bringing out Dhrupodi from time to time."

Professor Kabir Chowdhury shared his views on the book: "I have always wanted to keep myself associated with uncontaminated entertainment. But it is becoming difficult in our society to keep things that way."

"However we have to continue with our efforts and also get the youth involved," he added.

The programme wrapped up with the screening of an Argentine movie, The Cloud (directed by Fernando Solanas).