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

In her opening remarks, Ms Alexandra Khlevnoy welcomed distinguished guests and highlighted the global significance of Gagarin’s flight on 12 April 1961, noting that it marked the beginning of the space age and expanded the horizons of human achievement. She said Gagarin’s legacy continues to inspire curiosity, courage and scientific ambition among young people.

She also emphasised the growing educational, scientific and cultural ties between Russia and Bangladesh, including ongoing cooperation such as the Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant project and the contribution of more than 6,000 Bangladeshi graduates from Russian and Soviet universities. She encouraged students to pursue science and astronomy and explore opportunities to study in Russian universities through the Russian House in Dhaka.

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

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” were also held, 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 organised. The chairman of the Bangladesh Astronomical Association, Mr Moshurul Amin, paid tribute to Gagarin, describing him as a “world hero” and a symbol of human courage and exploration.

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

The photography and sculpture exhibitions will remain open from 10 to 16 April 2026.