The Russian House in Dhaka inaugurated the Gagarin Science Festival 2026, marking the 65th anniversary of Yuri Gagarin’s historic spaceflight.

Delivering the opening remarks, Ms. Alexandra Khlevnoy welcomed distinguished guests and highlighted the global significance of Yuri Gagarin’s flight on April 12, 1961, noting that it marked the beginning of the space age and expanded the horizons of human achievement. She emphasized that Gagarin’s legacy continues to inspire curiosity, courage, and scientific ambition among young generations, while also underscoring the strong educational, scientific, and cultural ties between Russia and Bangladesh, including ongoing cooperation such as the Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant and the contributions of more than 6,000 Bangladeshi graduates from Russian and Soviet universities. She encouraged students to pursue science and astronomy, explore new frontiers, expressed sincere appreciation to the Bangladesh Astronomical Association, participants, and guests, and invited young people to explore opportunities for studying astronomy and related fields in Russian universities through the Russian House in Dhaka.

The festival is jointly organized with the Bangladesh Astronomical Association and features a week-long series of activities aimed at promoting scientific curiosity, creativity, and innovation among youth.

The opening day included the inauguration of the photography exhibition “Yuri Gagarin – First Human in Space” and a scientist sculpture exhibition, screenings from the VII International Film Festival “Tsiolkovsky,” including the documentary “Gagarin. Embracing the World” and the animated series “The Flying Story.” A science seminar on Albert Einstein by Arif Asgar and a quiz competition for school students were also held.

Chairman of Bangladesh Astronomical Association Mr. Moshurl Amin paid tribute to Yuri Gagarin, describing him as a “world hero” and a symbol of human courage and exploration.

Certificates were distributed to all participants, and the event concluded with a telescope-based sky observation session.

The Yuri Gagarin photography exhibition and the scientist sculpture exhibition will remain open from April 10 to April 16, 2026.